Orangettes

i have a serious weakness for orangette. if you don't know what they are let me explain: take the best crap ever, boil it in sugary goodness then cover it in more deliciousness also know as dark chocolate. that about explains it. i had before now been able to keep my obsession at bay simply by rarely having these treats around me (when is the last time you came across some on a dessert menu? or starbucks?). but i have now unleashed a beast by tailor making these treats for myself (via fabulous oranges from my parents and 90% dark chocolate) and now, for the past month, have had at least 3-4 every single night before bed. all's well that ends well.

ORANGETTES

4 large oranges

1c sugar

1c water

5 oz unsweetened chocolate (or to your taste), chopped

5 oz 85% dark chocolate (or to your taste), chopped

*peel the oranges, cutting the rind into thin, even strips

*place all peels in large bowl, cover with cold water and let soak, covered overnight to 24 hours

*drain peels and place in pot of boiling water, let boil 2-3 minutes

*drain and repeat boil

*drain again and set aside

*in separate pan bring sugar and water to boil, add blanched peels and simmer for 45 minutes -1 hour

*remove peels to cooling rack, let them completely cool and "set" (about 6-8 hours)

*over a double broiler melt 3/4 of the chocolate

*take off the heat and stir in remain chocolate pieces until the mixture reaches 90F

*dip your candied peels in the tempered chocolate and place on parchment to cool.