Homemade Grapefruit and Orange Candies

Begin by cutting the peels into strips and then into small cubes. This will help to ensure that they are evenly cooked and absorb the syrup well.

Next, boil the peel cubes in water along with a teaspoon of salt. This step is crucial to remove any bitterness from the peels, making the final product more enjoyable.

Once boiled, be sure to drain the peels and rinse them thoroughly with cold water.

In a saucepan, combine the freshly squeezed orange juice, measured water, sugar, glucose syrup (if using), cinnamon stick, lemon juice, and either vanilla sugar or your choice of vanillin.

Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring gently to dissolve the sugar completely.

After the mixture comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 3 to 4 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

During the cooking process, it's important to keep an eye on the mixture. You may need to add an additional cup of water to keep it from burning, ensuring the candied peels become beautifully translucent.

Once the candied peels are cooked through and transparent, carefully transfer them to a jar or airtight container.

They should be stored in the refrigerator for optimal freshness, but you can also freeze them for longer storage. Enjoy your homemade grapefruit and orange candies whenever you desire!