ShunDe Sweet Pomelo Peels (顺德甘柚皮）is a delightful traditional sweet that highlights the natural fragrance and unique texture of pomelo. Here’s how you can make and enjoy this delicious treat in English:
Ingredients:
- Pomelo peels: An adequate amount (preferably thick and fresh)
- White sugar: To taste
- Rock sugar (optional, for added translucency and shine)
- Water: For boiling
- Salt: A pinch (for initial processing of the peels)
Steps to Make Sweet Pomelo Peels:
- Prepare the Pomelo Peels:
- Choose fresh pomelos and carefully peel off the tough outer green layer, leaving only the white pith.
- Slice the white pith into strips or small pieces.
- Remove Bitterness:
- Place the sliced pith in a pot with plenty of water and a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil over high heat, then simmer on medium-low heat for about 10 minutes.
- Drain the pith and rinse under cold water. Repeat this process at least three times, changing the water each time, until the bitterness is significantly reduced.
- Sugar Infusion:
- In a clean pot, combine water and sugar (or rock sugar) in a 1:1 ratio, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Add the prepared pomelo peels to the sugar syrup and cook over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even coating.
- Thickening the Syrup:
- Continue cooking until the syrup becomes thick and the pomelo peels turn translucent.
- If you prefer a drier texture, increase the heat slightly towards the end to evaporate excess moisture, but be cautious not to burn the peels.
- Cooling and Storage:
- Remove from heat and let the sweetened pomelo peels cool on a wire rack, allowing them to dry slightly on the surface.
- Once fully cooled, store them in an airtight container in a cool place or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Enjoying Sweet Pomelo Peels:
- As a Snack: Enjoy the sweet pomelo peels directly as a snack. They offer a sweet yet refreshing taste with hints of citrus.
- With Tea: Pair them with tea such as green tea or oolong for a delightful afternoon treat.
- In Dessert Soups: Incorporate sweet pomelo peels into traditional Chinese dessert soups like red bean soup or mung bean soup for added texture and flavor.
- Creative Desserts: Experiment by adding them to ice cream, puddings, or other desserts for a unique twist.
ShunDe Sweet Pomelo Peels not only provide a tasty traditional snack but also offer health benefits, given the nutritional value of pomelos, which are rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants. By following these steps, you can create and savor this special sweet that captures the essence of pomelo in every bite. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
