Oranges in Grand Marnier

Oranges in Grand Marnier Recipe from France

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Oranges in Grand Marnier is a delightful and elegant dessert that combines the sweet and tangy flavors of oranges with the rich and aromatic taste of Grand Marnier liqueur. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or as a refreshing treat on a hot summer day.

History

Oranges in Grand Marnier is a classic French dessert that dates back to the early 20th century. The combination of fresh oranges and Grand Marnier liqueur creates a harmonious blend of flavors that is both sophisticated and delicious.

Ingredients

6 oranges
0.25 cup of sugar
1 cup of water
0.13 cup of corn syrup
2 tbsp of lemon juice
0.25 cup of grand marnier

How to prepare

Using a zester or vegetable peeler, peel thin strips of orange rind from 2 of the oranges, being careful not to include any white part.
Cut the orange rind into wispy thin strips and place them in a saucepan.
Pour in enough cold water to cover the orange rind and bring it to a boil. This step removes any bitter flavor. Drain the water and set the orange rind aside.
Using a sharp knife, cut the peel, including any white pith and membrane, from the oranges.
Cut the oranges into round slices and place them in a glass bowl or arrange them in overlapping slices on a platter.
In the same saucepan, combine sugar, water, and corn syrup. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring only until the sugar has dissolved.
Add the strips of orange rind to the saucepan and simmer uncovered for 25 minutes or until the syrup slightly thickens.
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in lemon juice and liqueur.
Let the sauce cool, then pour it over the oranges.
Refrigerate the oranges for 2 to 8 hours, turning them once or twice.
Taste and add more liqueur if desired.

Variations

For a non-alcoholic version, substitute the Grand Marnier with orange juice or orange zest.
Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm and spicy flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to remove all the white pith and membrane from the oranges to avoid any bitter taste.

- Boiling the orange rind strips in water helps to remove any bitterness and enhances the flavor.

- Refrigerating the oranges for a few hours allows the flavors to meld together and creates a more intense taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Oranges in Grand Marnier chilled, either on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Cooking Techniques

The key to this recipe is in the preparation of the oranges and the simmering of the syrup to the right consistency. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully for best results.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have Grand Marnier on hand, you can use another orange liqueur or even brandy as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

Oranges in Grand Marnier can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the orange slices in a decorative pattern on a platter and drizzle the syrup over the top for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Oranges in Grand Marnier pairs well with a glass of champagne or a cup of hot tea for a sophisticated dessert experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Oranges in Grand Marnier contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Oranges in Grand Marnier contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

This recipe is low in fat, with only a small amount coming from the corn syrup and Grand Marnier.

Proteins

Oranges in Grand Marnier is a protein-free dessert.

Vitamins and minerals

Oranges are a great source of vitamin C, while Grand Marnier contains trace amounts of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

This recipe contains corn syrup, which may be a potential allergen for some individuals.

Summary

Oranges in Grand Marnier is a light and refreshing dessert that is relatively low in calories and fat. It is a good source of vitamin C and makes for a delicious and elegant treat.

Summary

Oranges in Grand Marnier is a simple yet elegant dessert that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of fresh oranges and Grand Marnier liqueur creates a refreshing and sophisticated treat that is sure to impress your guests. Enjoy this delightful dessert on its own or with a scoop of ice cream for a truly indulgent experience.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a magnet. Oranges in Grand Marnier. The name alone conjured up images of sophistication and elegance. I knew I had to learn how to make it.

I first came across the recipe for Oranges in Grand Marnier in a small cookbook that I found at a flea market. The book was old and weathered, with pages yellowed from age. As I flipped through its pages, my eyes landed on the recipe that would soon become one of my favorites.

The recipe was simple, yet elegant. Oranges, peeled and sliced, soaked in Grand Marnier and sprinkled with sugar. It was a dessert fit for a queen, and I knew I had to make it for my next dinner party.

I followed the recipe to the letter, carefully peeling and slicing the oranges and then soaking them in the rich, amber-colored liqueur. As the oranges soaked, the sweet aroma of the Grand Marnier filled my kitchen, promising a delicious dessert to come.

When the time came to serve the Oranges in Grand Marnier, I sprinkled them with sugar and watched as the sugar dissolved, creating a sweet syrup that coated the oranges. I took a bite, and my taste buds were instantly transported to a world of decadence and luxury. The oranges were tender and juicy, with a hint of bitterness from the peel, balanced perfectly by the sweet, boozy flavor of the Grand Marnier.

My guests raved about the dessert, and I knew that I had stumbled upon a recipe that would become a staple in my repertoire. But I wanted to learn more about the origins of this delicious dish.

I turned to my friend Margaret, who was a culinary historian with a wealth of knowledge about food and its history. She told me that Oranges in Grand Marnier had been a popular dessert in France for centuries, enjoyed by kings and nobles alike.

Margaret also shared with me a story about how the recipe had been passed down through generations in her own family. Her great-grandmother had learned how to make Oranges in Grand Marnier from a French chef who had served in the royal court. The recipe had been a closely guarded secret, handed down from mother to daughter for over a hundred years.

I was fascinated by this story and determined to learn more about the history of Oranges in Grand Marnier. I delved into old cookbooks and culinary archives, searching for clues about the origins of this delectable dessert.

What I discovered was a rich tapestry of history and tradition. Oranges in Grand Marnier had its roots in the grand kitchens of French palaces, where chefs created extravagant dishes to delight the royal palate. The combination of sweet oranges and fiery Grand Marnier was a match made in culinary heaven, a perfect marriage of flavors that had stood the test of time.

As I continued to make Oranges in Grand Marnier for family and friends, I felt a sense of connection to the past, to all the cooks and chefs who had come before me, perfecting this timeless recipe. I imagined myself in a grand French kitchen, surrounded by the aromas of roasting meats and simmering sauces, preparing this elegant dessert for a royal banquet.

And so, every time I make Oranges in Grand Marnier, I feel a sense of pride and joy, knowing that I am carrying on a tradition that spans centuries. It is a dish that speaks of luxury and indulgence, of history and heritage. And every time I take a bite of those tender, boozy oranges, I am reminded of the rich tapestry of flavors and stories that make up the world of food.

So the next time you find yourself in possession of a few ripe oranges and a bottle of Grand Marnier, why not give this ancient recipe a try? You may just find yourself transported to a world of elegance and sophistication, where the flavors of the past mingle with the pleasures of the present. Bon appétit!