In Sardinia, winter brings with it the citrus scent of oranges, a fruit that not only enriches the table but also inspires traditional sweets like nugoresa orange peel candy. This delicacy, characterized by the sweetness of honey and the crunchiness of almonds, presents itself as a dessert with an intense and aromatic flavor, capable of evoking the warmth of local traditions. The preparation requires particular attention to the orange peel, which is treated with patience: after removing the white part, the peels are cut into strips and soaked for five days, a fundamental process to eliminate the bitterness and achieve a perfect balance between sweet and sour. This preparation technique, typical of Sardinian cuisine, not only enhances the flavor of the orange but makes nugoresa orange peel candy a unique dessert. Originating from the Nuoro area, this recipe finds its place on tables during holidays and celebrations, but it is also a great way to enjoy a simple and genuine sweet at any time of the year. Often served at the end of a meal or during coffee with friends, nugoresa orange peel candy pairs beautifully with a good sweet Sardinian wine, making each bite a moment of pure delight. Local variations may include the addition of spices like cinnamon, which further enriches the aromatic profile of the sweet, making it ideal for winter celebrations. With its enveloping flavor and its story rooted in the territory, nugoresa orange peel candy is a true treasure of Sardinian culinary tradition, capable of bringing a bit of sunshine even on the coldest days.
* approximate values per serving
After removing the white part beneath the peel of the orange, cut it into strips about two millimeters thick and 5-6 centimeters long. Soak them for 5 days, changing the water daily to allow the peel to lose its bitter flavor. After the fifth day, drain the water, place the strips in a saucepan over low heat, and add the honey. Stir often and gently until the strips have absorbed all the honey. At this point, add the sugar and the almonds, which should have been peeled and ground into a smooth paste beforehand. Pour the mixture onto a sheet of aluminum foil and level it with a rolling pin until reaching the desired uniform thickness (usually one and a half centimeters); let it rest for a few hours. Then cut with a knife into the desired shapes and sizes; alternatively, place them in suitable cups.