To make dried bitter orange peel, simply hang the fresh peels for five to seven days until dry.
While the provided YouTube snippet is extremely short, we can extrapolate general information about drying citrus peels from that and common practices to provide a more complete answer. Here's a more detailed guide for drying bitter orange peel:
1. Preparation:
- Wash the oranges thoroughly: Remove any dirt or debris from the surface of the bitter oranges.
- Peel the oranges: Use a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife to carefully remove the outer layer of the peel, called the zest or flavedo. Try to avoid including too much of the white pith (albedo) which can be bitter. You can choose to peel them in strips, pieces, or use a zester for fine zest. The size will affect drying time.
2. Drying Methods:
- Air Drying: This is suggested by the video snippet.
- Spread the peels in a single layer on a clean drying rack or a screen.
- Place the rack in a well-ventilated, dry area away from direct sunlight. Direct sunlight can cause the peels to lose flavor and color.
- Allow the peels to dry for 5-7 days, or until they are brittle and snap easily. Turning them occasionally will help ensure even drying.
- Oven Drying:
- Preheat your oven to the lowest possible setting (ideally around 170-200°F or 75-95°C).
- Spread the peels in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and prop the door open slightly to allow moisture to escape.
- Dry for 1-4 hours, checking frequently. The drying time will depend on the thickness of the peels and the oven temperature. They are done when brittle.
- Dehydrator:
- Arrange the peels in a single layer on the dehydrator trays.
- Set the dehydrator to the appropriate temperature (usually around 135°F or 57°C).
- Dry for 6-12 hours, or until the peels are brittle.
3. Storage:
- Once the peels are completely dry, store them in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place. Properly dried and stored peels can last for up to a year.
4. Usage:
- As the video mentions, dried bitter orange peel can be used in dishes like beef stew to add a bright, citrusy flavor. It is also commonly used in teas, baked goods, and as a flavoring for liqueurs and bitters. You can grind the dried peel into a powder for easier use.
