Candied Buddha's Hand Citron

Name: Candied Buddha's Hand Citron
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 90 min
Total time: 100 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1 Buddha's Hand citron (thoroughly cleaned); 2 cups granulated sugar; 2 cups water

100 min 8 servings Medium

All Recipes

Discover how to make candied Buddha's Hand citron with this easy and flavourful recipe, perfect for snacking or as a sweet garnish.

Prep

10 min

Cook

90 min

Total

100 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Buddha's Hand citron, with its unique finger-like shape and fragrant aroma, is a captivating fruit that can be transformed into a delightful sweet treat. Candied Buddha's Hand citron is not only a delicious snack on its own but also an exquisite garnish for desserts and cocktails. This recipe walks you through the process of candying this exotic fruit, ensuring the perfect balance of sweetness and citrus flavour. It's a great way to preserve the fruit and enjoy its vibrant taste long after the season has passed.

Instructions

Prepare the Buddha's Hand

Rinse the Buddha's Hand thoroughly under cold water. Pat dry and slice into thin strips, about 0.5 cm (1/4 inch) thick.

Pro tip: Ensure all seeds are removed if any are present.

Blanch the citron

Bring a medium pot of water to a boil. Add the sliced citron and blanch for 5 minutes. Drain and repeat once more to reduce bitterness.

Pro tip: Blanching helps to soften the citron and remove any bitterness.

Prepare the syrup

In the same pot, combine 2 cups of water and 2 cups of sugar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.

Simmer the citron

Add the blanched citron to the syrup. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 80-90 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the citron becomes translucent.

Pro tip: Ensure the heat is low to prevent the syrup from caramelizing.

Dry the candied citron

Using a slotted spoon, transfer the candied citron to a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Let it dry for 24 hours at room temperature.

Pro tip: Place parchment paper under the rack to catch any drips.

Store or serve

Once dried, store the candied citron in an airtight container. Enjoy as a snack or use as a garnish.

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Tips & Tricks

Ensure the Buddha's Hand is thoroughly cleaned before use.
Patience is key for the simmering process to allow the syrup to penetrate the citron.
Store the candied citron in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is candied Buddha's Hand citron?

Candied Buddha's Hand citron is a sweetened version of the fragrant citrus fruit, made by simmering it in sugar syrup.

How do you store candied Buddha's Hand citron?

Store candied Buddha's Hand citron in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three months.

Can I use candied Buddha's Hand citron in baking?

Yes, it can be used as a garnish or ingredient in cakes, muffins, and other baked goods.

How long does it take to make candied Buddha's Hand citron?

The total time is approximately 100 minutes, including cooking and drying.

Is Buddha's Hand citron edible?

Yes, it is edible and often used for its fragrant zest and unique flavour in culinary applications.

Serving Suggestions

Once your candied Buddha's Hand citron is ready, you can enjoy it as a standalone treat or use it to add a sweet citrus note to cakes, muffins, or ice cream. Pair it with dark chocolate for a sophisticated dessert or include it in a charcuterie board for an unexpected twist. Candied citron can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to three months. This makes it a perfect gift option during the holiday season or a handy ingredient to have in your pantry.