How Do You Dry Orange Slices With Cloves?

Drying orange slices with cloves is a great way to make your home smell wonderful and create a festive decoration for any special occasion. You can dry oranges with cloves in a microwave oven, using an air fryer, on a stove, or even in sunlight. The process involves thinly slicing the oranges, studding them with cloves, and slowly drying them to preserve their color and aroma.

What Kind Of Oranges Should I Dry?

The best oranges to use for drying are Cara Cara or Valencia oranges. Both varieties have a sweet flavor and thin skin, which make them ideal for drying. The citrusy aroma of the orange slices will be enhanced with the addition of cloves, so picking an aromatic variety is also important.

How Long Does It Take To Dry Orange Slices With Cloves?

It depends on the thickness of your orange slices and the temperature of your environment. Generally, it takes about 8-12 hours for thick slices to dry completely in a warm room. If you have thinner slices or are drying them in a cooler room, it can take up to 24 hours.

It’s best to check your orange slices every few hours, as you don’t want them to become too dry and brittle. If they look overly dried out, turn off the heat source and take them off the drying rack.

Why Orange Slices Are Dried With Cloves?

• Combining orange slices and cloves adds a unique flavor to food, drinks, or desserts.
• Cloves are known for their antimicrobial properties and can help keep the oranges from spoiling during drying.
• Cloves have an intense aroma that infuses the orange slices as they dry, creating an aromatic flavor that pairs well with many dishes.
• Drying orange slices in the oven or dehydrator with cloves can produce a chewy texture and a sweet-tart flavor ideal for use on top of cakes, cookies, or even as a drink garnish.

How Do You Dry Orange Slices With Cloves In Oven?

Drying oranges with cloves is a simple and flavorful way to preserve the fruit for longer. The baked slices have a lovely flavor and make great snacks or decorations. You can easily create delicious dried orange slices with cloves with just a few ingredients and some time in the oven.

Step 1: Preheat oven to 140°F (60°C).

Step 2: Slice oranges into thin rounds and roll in a mixture of granulated sugar and ground cloves.

Step 3: Arrange the orange slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet with the sugary side up.

Step 4: Bake for 2 to 3 hours, checking often and flipping the slices halfway through baking.

Step 5: When done, the oranges should be lightly browned and slightly crisp.

Step 6: Let cool before serving or storing in an airtight container at room temperature. Enjoy!

How To Dry Orange Slices With Cloves In Air Fryer?

Step 1: Start preparing your oranges by slicing them into circular pieces of equal thickness.

Step 2: Thread cloves into each orange slice and secure them with toothpicks if necessary.

Step 3: Preheat your air fryer to 350-370 degrees Fahrenheit (177-188 degrees Celsius).

Step 4: Place the orange slices in the air fryer basket and cook for 10 minutes.

Step 5: Check to see if they are dry enough, and then cook for 5-7 minutes if necessary.

Step 6: Once the orange slices have reached your desired texture, remove them from the air fryer and cool them before serving.

How To Dry Orange Slices With Cloves In Sunlight?

Step 1: Start washing the oranges and slicing them into thin rounds.

Step 2: Take a few cloves and insert one in each orange slice. Make sure to push it in firmly so that it can stick properly.

Step 3: Place the orange slices on a baking tray with parchment paper beneath it, ensuring no overlap between the slices.

Step 4: Leave the tray in direct sunlight and turn it every couple of hours so that all sides are exposed to sunlight evenly.

Step 5: Depending on your climate, the slices should completely dry within 4-6 hours.

Step 6: Once dry, remove the cloves from the oranges and store them in an airtight container for up to three months.

How To Make Dried Orange And Cloves Christmas Decorations?

Step 1: Preheat oven to 200°F and line a baking tray with parchment paper.

Step 2: Slice oranges into thin rounds and place on the baking tray.

Step 3: Push whole cloves into the center of each orange slice before putting it in the oven.

Step 4: Bake for 1-2 hours or until the orange slices are completely dry.

Step 5: Remove the tray from the oven and leave to cool before handling.

Step 6:  Thread a piece of string through each slice and hang them up as decorations! The cloves will give your Christmas decorations a beautiful aroma of oranges and spices during the festive season.

How To Make Orange Pomander Balls With Cloves?

Step 1: Slice oranges into 1/4-inch thick rounds, leaving the skin intact.

Step 2: Make sure to poke two holes along the circumference of each slice with a sharp knife or toothpick.

Step 3: Place the slices on a wire rack and dry them in an oven set at 120 degrees Fahrenheit until crisp.

Step 4: Carefully remove the orange slices from the oven and let them cool completely.

Step 5: Thread cloves into each pair of holes in the orange slice, creating a pattern if desired, or pierce two cloves into each hole.

Step 6: Tie a string around the circumference of the orange slice, keeping the cloves in their pattern.

Step 7: Hang the pomander balls in a dry place and let them sit for several weeks until they are completely dried out.

Step 8: Once fully dry, store your Orange Pomander Balls with Cloves in an airtight container and enjoy the beautiful, fragrant decoration.

How To Store Dried Orange Slices?

Once the orange slices are dried and inserted with cloves, storing them properly for a long shelf life is important. It is best to store in an airtight container, either a sealable glass jar or a food-grade plastic container. If stored correctly, these dried oranges with cloves can last up to 6 months. Place the container in a cool and dark place, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. If stored properly, these dried orange slices with cloves can be used as decorations or added to spiced drinks for extra flavor.

FAQs

Can I add other spices to the orange slices?

Yes, you can add spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or star anise to enhance the aroma and appearance of your dried orange slices.

How do I know when my orange slices are completely dry?

The slices should be firm, slightly translucent, and free of moisture. They should not release any liquid when bent but shouldn’t be brittle.

What are some other uses for dried orange slices with cloves?

You can use them as potpourri, table decorations, or even a natural air freshener for your car.

Can I dry other fruits with cloves?

Yes, you can experiment with various fruits like apples, lemons, and grapefruits. Just remember to adjust the drying time accordingly.

Can you use dried orange peels?

Yes, you can use dried orange peels to create a delicious and decorative garnish. To dry the peels of orange, slice them into thin strips, then place them on a lined baking sheet. Bake the peels at 200°F for 2-3 hours or until completely dry. O

Why do people put an orange slice on a blue moon?

It is a form of folk art that has been around since the 16th century when people in Europe used to adorn their oranges with cloves and hang them in doorways or windows. Orange slices with cloves were believed to ward off evil spirits, illnesses, and bad luck. It is more commonly seen as a decorative element in many homes today.

Conclusion

Drying orange slices with cloves is a great way to preserve the flavor of oranges and use them as decorations or garnishes for recipes. To ensure your dried oranges are successful, you should ensure that each slice has been evenly coated in sugar and spices, completely dry before storing, and kept away from humidity. It’s easy to do and the result is a tasty treat lasting for months.