Desserts > Fruit Desserts > Candied Fruit

Candied Papaya Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 large papaya
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt

Special Equipment Needed:
- Candy thermometer
- Parchment paper

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cut the papaya into small cubes and set aside.

2. In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the sugar, water, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.

3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.

4. Once the mixture reaches 240°F on a candy thermometer, add the papaya cubes and stir gently to coat them with the syrup.

5. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the papaya in the syrup for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the syrup has thickened and the papaya is translucent.

6. Remove the pan from the heat and let the papaya cool in the syrup for 10-15 minutes.

7. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the candied papaya to a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool completely.

8. Once cooled, store the candied papaya in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.


Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Temperature:
Medium-high heat
Serving size:
Makes about 2 cups of candied papaya

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 120
Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 31g
Protein: 0g
Sodium: 60mg
Sugar: 30g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a richer flavor.
- You can use other tropical fruits like mango or pineapple instead of papaya.

Variations:
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger to the syrup for extra flavor.
- Sprinkle the candied papaya with toasted coconut flakes before serving.

Tips and Tricks:
- Be careful not to overcook the papaya or it will become too soft and mushy.
- If the syrup starts to crystallize, add a tablespoon of corn syrup to the mixture to prevent it from happening.

Storage Instructions:
Store the candied papaya in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Reheating Instructions:
There is no need to reheat the candied papaya.

Presentation Ideas:
Arrange the candied papaya on a platter and garnish with fresh mint leaves.

Garnishes:
Fresh mint leaves, toasted coconut flakes

Pairings:
Serve the candied papaya as a sweet snack or dessert.

Suggested Side Dishes:
Fresh fruit salad, vanilla ice cream

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the syrup is too thin, continue to simmer the papaya until it thickens.
- If the syrup is too thick, add a tablespoon of water to thin it out.

Food Safety Advice:
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure that the syrup reaches the correct temperature.
- Be careful when working with hot sugar syrup as it can cause burns.

Food History:
Candied fruit has been enjoyed for centuries and was a popular treat in ancient Rome.

Flavor Profiles:
Sweet, fruity, and slightly tangy

Serving Suggestions:
Serve the candied papaya as a sweet snack or dessert.

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Taste: Sweet, Tangy, Spicy, Fruity, Caramelized