Candied Buddha’s Hand Citron: A Unique Gift for the Foodie in Your Life

Candied Buddha’s Hand Citron is a special treat that stands out among other citrus candies. With its intricate fingered appearance and fragrant zest, Buddha’s hand is a unique and exotic citrus fruit that takes on a whole new flavor profile when candied. This delicious treat makes an ideal gift for those hard-to-please foodies on your holiday list or anyone who appreciates gourmet sweets. The process may take a bit of time, but the results are well worth the effort!

Quick Benefits

Exotic Flavor: Buddha’s hand has a fragrant and subtle citrus flavor that’s unlike any other, making it a special treat.
Perfect for Gifting: A homemade, unique candy that’s perfect for giving to friends and family who love specialty foods.
Versatile Use: The reserved syrup can be used in cocktails or drizzled over desserts, adding another layer of flavor to your recipes.
Low in Calories: At just 77 calories per serving, this candied treat is a guilt-free indulgence.

Essential Ingredients

To make Candied Buddha’s Hand Citron, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Buddha’s hand (3 cups, diced) – The star of this recipe, offering a unique citrus flavor.
White sugar (3 cups, divided) – To candy the citrus and create a syrup.
Water (2 cups) – Used to cook the Buddha’s hand and create the syrup.

Preparation Steps

Boil the Buddha’s Hand: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the diced Buddha’s hand and cook until the citrus softens, about 30 minutes. Once done, drain the citrus and set aside.
Prepare the Syrup: In the same pot, combine the Buddha’s hand, 2 ½ cups of sugar, and water. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until the syrup reaches a temperature of 230°F (110°C). Once done, remove the pot from the heat and let it cool to room temperature.
Drain and Reserve the Syrup: Drain the citrus, but save the syrup by pouring it into jars. This syrup can be used in cocktails or as a sweetener in other dishes.
Dry the Citrus: Spread the drained citrus out on a wire rack and let it dry until it becomes tacky—this will take at least 24 hours.
Coat with Sugar: After the citrus has dried, place the remaining ½ cup of sugar in a shallow bowl. Toss the citrus in the sugar until it is evenly coated, then transfer the coated pieces to a plate to dry for at least 2 hours.

Health Benefits

Vitamin C: Buddha’s hand contains vitamin C, which supports immune health and acts as an antioxidant.
Low in Sodium: At only 1mg of sodium per serving, this treat is perfect for those looking to reduce sodium intake.
Rich in Fiber: With 1g of dietary fiber per serving, Buddha’s hand helps support healthy digestion.
Zero Protein: While low in protein, this treat can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.

Serving Suggestions

As a Snack: Enjoy Candied Buddha’s Hand Citron on its own as a sweet, citrusy snack.
In Cocktails: Use the reserved syrup to flavor cocktails or mocktails for a unique twist.
Garnish for Desserts: Add pieces of the candied Buddha’s hand as a garnish on cakes, ice cream, or pastries.
In Gift Baskets: Pack the candied pieces in small jars or gift boxes for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Creative Variations

Other Citrus Peels: If you can’t find Buddha’s hand, substitute with lemon, orange, or lime peels for a similar candied citrus effect.
Spiced Version: Add a few cloves or cinnamon sticks to the syrup during simmering to infuse the candied citrus with a warm, spiced flavor.
Cocoa Dusting: For a chocolate twist, roll the candied Buddha’s hand in cocoa powder after it dries to create a chocolate-citrus combination.

Storage Tips

Refrigeration: Store Candied Buddha’s Hand Citron in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.
Freezing: You can freeze the candied citrus in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before using.
Syrup Storage: Keep the reserved syrup in the refrigerator for up to a week, and use it in drinks or to sweeten dishes.

Pro Tips

Patience is Key: Allowing the Buddha’s hand to dry thoroughly after being coated in sugar ensures the best texture and flavor.
Double the Recipe: Since Buddha’s hand is often sold in large quantities, it’s worth doubling the recipe to make extra for gifts or personal use.
Use a Candy Thermometer: To ensure the syrup reaches the correct temperature (230°F), a candy thermometer is helpful in achieving the perfect consistency.
Customize the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter candy, you can increase the amount of sugar used in the syrup or when coating the citrus.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular lemons or oranges instead of Buddha’s hand?

Yes, you can use regular citrus fruits like lemons or oranges. The flavor will differ slightly, but you’ll still get a wonderful candied citrus treat.

How long will the candied Buddha’s hand keep?

When stored properly, Candied Buddha’s Hand Citron will last for up to 1 month in the refrigerator.

What can I do with the reserved syrup?

The reserved syrup is excellent for adding to cocktails, drizzling over desserts, or mixing into teas for a citrusy sweet flavor.

Is Buddha’s hand easy to find?

Buddha’s hand can be found at specialty grocery stores or farmer’s markets, especially in areas with a wide variety of citrus fruits. If you can’t find it, other citrus fruits like lemons or oranges can be substituted.

Candied Buddha’s Hand Citron is a delightful and exotic treat that’s perfect for impressing guests or giving as a gift. The combination of its unique citrus flavor and the sweet, sugar-coated finish makes it an unforgettable indulgence!