Following our previous sharing on the amazing health benefits of pomelo peel, are you ready for some incredibly simple ways to process this versatile ingredient? First, let's start with this classic recipe for making soft candied pomelo peel (Mứt vỏ bưởi dẻo).
Using high-quality ingredients—such as the essential oil-rich peel of the Ben Tre green skin pomelo, which is registered under the "Pink Lady Pomelo" trademark —will elevate this sustainable, zero-waste treat to the next level.
📝 Ingredients You Will Need
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Pomelo Peel: The peel from 2 fresh pomelos (Preferably green-skinned pomelos for their thick skin and fragrant essential oils ).
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White Granulated Sugar: 140g
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Salt: To taste (used for soaking and neutralizing bitterness)
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Vanilla Extract: A few drops (optional, for aroma)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Peel
Thinly peel the pomelo, ensuring you only keep a very thin layer of the spongy white pith attached to the outer skin.
Step 2: Slice into Strips
Cut the prepared pomelo peel into strips of your desired length and thickness.
Step 3: Soak in Saltwater
Submerge the sliced peels in a saltwater solution and let them soak for 5 hours. Afterward, thoroughly knead and squeeze the peels under clean running water multiple times. This crucial step helps reduce the saltiness and extracts the strong, spicy essential oils from the skin.
Step 4: Boil to Remove Bitterness
Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil and blanch the pomelo peels for 5 minutes. Drain and rinse them under clean running water, gently kneading them again to further reduce the bitter taste.
Pro Tip: Repeat this boiling and rinsing process a few times until you taste the peel and it retains only a mild, pleasant bitterness. Do not completely eliminate the bitter flavor, as this will cause the candied peel to lose its signature citrus aroma and soft, chewy texture!
Step 5: Marinate and Cook (Sên Mứt)
Squeeze out the excess water from the peels. Add the granulated sugar to the peels and mix thoroughly. Let it sit until the sugar is completely dissolved and absorbed.
Transfer the mixture to a pan and cook over medium heat. Once the sugar syrup thickens, reduce the heat to low. When you see the sugar beginning to crystallize and coat the peels, add a few drops of vanilla extract, toss well, and turn off the heat.
Note: If you prefer a drier candied peel that has a longer shelf life, simply continue cooking on low heat for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 6: Cool and Store
Wait for the candied pomelo peel to cool completely. Transfer your homemade sweet treat into a glass jar with an airtight lid and store it at room temperature.
See? Pomelo peels might seem like something you would normally throw away, but they can easily be transformed into a delicious and easy-to-make healthy snack. So, what are you waiting for? Try making this zero-waste recipe today!
Agriculture Coop of Green Pomelo (Ben Tre)