Candied iyokan peel

The Sweet Aroma of Candied Iyokan Peel

Candied Iyokan peel has a characteristic aroma that blends citrus notes with a sweet undertone. Iyokan is a Japanese citrus fruit that resembles mandarin, and its candied peel has a flavor that is both slightly bitter and sweet. When candied, Iyokan peel takes on a tender texture and an intense flavor reminiscent of citrus with a hint of sweetness.

How to Use Candied Iyokan Peel in Cooking?

Sweet, crunchy, and tangy, candied Iyokan peels can be used as toppings on various desserts such as cakes, chocolate mousse, cocktails, or even in verrines.

How to Use Candied Iyokan Peels in Recipes?

Here are some ideas for incorporating candied Iyokan peels into your recipes:

• Candied Iyokan Peel Cake: Cut your candied Iyokan peels into small pieces, then mix them into your cake batter. Bake for 50 minutes, then add some peels on top of your cake.
• Chocolate and Candied Iyokan Peel Muffins: In your muffin batter, add chocolate chips and candied Iyokan peels. Place the mixture in muffin molds and bake for 25 minutes.
• Hummus with Candied Iyokan Peels: Once your hummus is ready, plate it using a piping bag, and sprinkle candied Iyokan peels and crushed Timur berries on top.
• Candied Iyokan Peel Cookies: Incorporate candied Iyokan peels into your cookie dough, then form into balls and place them on baking sheets. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes.

Iyokan: A Delicious Japanese Citrus

Iyokan, scientifically known as Citrus × iyo, is a hybrid citrus fruit native to Japan. It is a natural crossbreed between mandarin (Citrus reticulata) and pomelo (Citrus maxima). Iyokan is characterized by its medium size, slightly flattened shape, and thick, easy-to-peel skin.

The fruits are typically bright orange when ripe. Iyokan trees are evergreen shrubs from the Rutaceae family. They have dark green, shiny leaves and produce fragrant white flowers. Iyokan fruits are primarily harvested for their juicy and sweet pulp, as well as their peel, which is often used candied or in the production of essential oils.

Production of Candied Iyokan Peels

Iyokan peel is often candied for use as an ingredient in various culinary preparations. It is prepared by candying the peels in a sugar syrup, making them tender, sweet, and slightly bitter.

This method of preserving and preparing Iyokan peels is typical in Japanese cuisine, where they are used to add a unique citrus flavor to a variety of dishes, desserts, and candies.

The History of Iyokan: The Japanese Citrus

Iyokan is a citrus fruit native to Japan, where it is highly prized for its sweet flavor. The history of Iyokan dates back to the early 20th century when this citrus was discovered in Ehime Prefecture on Shikoku Island, Japan. Its name, "Iyokan," is derived from the region where it was found.

Over the decades, Iyokan has gained popularity in other regions of the world, including the United States and New Zealand, where it is cultivated for local consumption and sometimes exported to other markets.