Candied Lime & Lime Simple Syrup

Candied Lime & Lime Simple Syrup

3 medium limes, peeled (excluding white pith)
1 1/2 cups white sugar, divided
1 cup water

 

Using a serrated vegetable peeler, remove the skin from the limes in long, vertical strips, or any shaped pieces ~ leaving as much of the bitter white pith on the fruit as possible.

Reserve the limes for another use.

Place the peels in a saucepan, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Boil for 30 seconds.

Drain in a colander.

Repeat ~ this removes the bitterness of the pith, but also lessens the lemon flavor intensity. For a stronger lime flavor, boil twice. For a mellower taste, boil three times.

While draining the peels, bring 2 cups of water and 1 1/2 cups of sugar to a boil. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved. Add the peels and reduce to a simmer, for about 60 minutes.

Strain the peels, reserving the lime simple syrup for another use (think yummy cocktails).

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 

 

Spread the peels out in an even layer on the parchment. Let the peels cool for about 15 minutes till tacky to the touch.

Dip the peels into the remaining sugar, tossing until coated. 

Sugar coating the peels will add sweetness and help to keep them from sticking together.

Place the peels back on the parchment. Let them dry for 2-3 hours.