For me, citrus fruits are an incredibly fascinating ingredient. Depending on the variety, they have different nuances of acidity, their peel exudes a beguiling fragrance and they can be used in the most diverse ways – from lime juice in guacamole to candied orange peel, the possibilities are virtually endless.
I have a particular fondness for highly concentrated citrus essence that you can rub into your hands just a few drops at a time, where it radiates an immediate sensation of freshness and sunshine. Another aromatic citrus fragrance is the orange powder that I have been using as a seasoning for many years now.
In carefully measured quantities, it is a great addition to salads, sweet pastries, roasted vegetables such as cauliflower, and white asparagus. You can use it to add a special tang to fried fish, or on grey autumn days you can simply open the container full of orange powder, breathe in the aroma and feel your inner sun rising.
This orange powder is versatile and easy to prepare. While it’s drying in the oven, its ethereal aroma permeates your entire home. And here’s how you make it:
8 unwaxed oranges
60 g sugar
250 ml water
Wash the oranges well, peel them finely using a peeler and simmer the peel gently in the water along with the sugar for around ten minutes until the mixture becomes syrupy. Spread the peel out on a baking tray covered with baking paper and dry it in the oven for around two hours at 60°C (hot air). Allow to cool, then grind finely in a food processor or spice mill and store in an airtight container.