- Do I need to peel the oranges?
- No, the peel provides the main flavor notes. But wash them thoroughly! If the peel is very thick, blanch the slices for 1 minute in boiling water to reduce bitterness.
- What kind of oranges should I use?
- Look for organic or unwaxed oranges since you will be eating the peel.
Spiced Pickled Orange Slices
Pickled oranges are inspired by Moroccan and Middle Eastern flavors. In winter, when citrus is at its peak, preserving oranges transforms them from a dessert fruit into a complex, bitter-sweet-salty savory accompaniment. Imagine a slice alongside succulent duck leg or roast lamb: the acidity cuts through the rich fat, while the essential oils in the peel provide a burst of freshness.
Ingredients
1
lb
Organic Oranges (unwaxed)
1
cup
White Wine Vinegar
1
cup
Water
1/4
cup
Honey
2
tbsp
Brown Sugar
1
tbsp
Salt
1
stick
Cinnamon
3
whole
Cloves
1
tsp
Chili Flakes
1
tsp
Mustard Seeds
2
whole
Bay Leaves
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Sterilized Mason Jar: For preservation.
- Saucepan: For the brine.
- Sharp Knife: For slicing.
Instructions
1
✓
Scrub the oranges in hot water. Trim the ends and slice into approx. 1/4-inch thick rounds. Flick out any seeds.
Tip: Seeds can be bitter, so it's best to remove them.
2
✓
Pack the slices tightly into the sterilized jar. The tighter the pack (without crushing), the less brine you need.
Tip: Tight packing ensures good brine coverage and minimizes air pockets.
3
✓
Make the brine: boil water, vinegar, honey, sugar, and salt with the spices. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
Tip: Heat helps the spices 'bloom' and release their aromatic oils into the liquid.
4
✓
Cool the brine to about 175°F (steaming but not rolling boil), then pour over the oranges. Seal the jar.
Tip: Hot brine sterilizes the surface and creates a vacuum seal, but boiling liquid destroys the fruit structure. 175°F is the sweet spot.
5
✓
Let cure for at least 24 hours in a cool place or the fridge. The longer it sits, the softer the peel becomes.
Tip: Salt and sugar penetrate the fruit slowly via osmosis, creating a perfect balance.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 1 lb Organic Oranges (unwaxed)
- 1 cup White Wine Vinegar
- 1 cup Water
- 1/4 cup Honey
- 2 tbsp Brown Sugar
- 1 tbsp Salt
- 1 stick Cinnamon
- 3 whole Cloves
- 1 tsp Chili Flakes
- 1 tsp Mustard Seeds
- 2 whole Bay Leaves