Carrot candies

Carrot Candies: A Sweet and Healthy Delight

Carrot candies, also known as orange balls, are a simple yet flavorful dessert that evokes happy childhood memories. Combining simple ingredients with a traditional preparation technique, these candies bring a touch of joy and nostalgia in every bite. Here’s how to make them step by step!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Dehydration time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 10-12 balls

Necessary ingredients:
- 100 g finely grated carrot (1 part)
- 100 g sugar (1 part)
- Juice from 2 lemons (to taste)

To achieve the best results, it is important to choose quality ingredients. Opt for fresh carrots, preferably from organic sources, to ensure that the candies will have an intense and natural flavor. Sugar can be white or brown, depending on your preference, but keeping the white sugar will provide a shinier glaze. As for the lemons, go for juicy ones, as fresh juice will add a note of freshness and acidity that balances the sweetness.

Preparing the candies:
1. Start by washing and peeling the carrots. Then, finely grate them using a fine grater. This step is essential, as the grated carrot will dehydrate evenly.
2. In a large bowl, mix the grated carrot with the sugar. Make sure the sugar is evenly distributed over the entire amount of carrot. This combination will allow the carrots to release their natural juices, creating a delicious paste.
3. Add the lemon juice. The acidic taste of the lemons will enhance the flavor of the carrot and help preserve the candies. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are well integrated.

Dehydration:
4. Transfer the mixture to a clay pot or baking dish. Make sure it is evenly spread out so that it dehydrates uniformly.
5. Preheat the oven to the lowest temperature (ideally around 50°C-60°C). Place the dish with the carrot mixture in the oven and let it dehydrate for about 2 hours. It is important to stir the mixture every 30 minutes to ensure it dries evenly.
6. If you used more carrot, you may need to extend the dehydration time. Check the texture of the mixture; it should be slightly sticky but not wet.

Forming the candies:
7. Once the mixture has dehydrated, allow it to cool to room temperature. Once it is cool enough, take a piece of the mixture and form balls the size of a golf ball.
8. Place granulated sugar in a bowl and, one by one, roll each ball in sugar. This will create a sweet and crunchy glaze that contrasts pleasantly with the soft interior.
9. If you leave them at room temperature for a few hours, the glaze will harden, providing an even more enjoyable texture.

Serving suggestions:
Carrot candies can be served as a healthy dessert or as a snack for kids. Share them with friends or save them for moments when you crave something sweet. These candies are perfect alongside a cup of green tea or a fragrant herbal tea that will complement their taste perfectly.

Nutritional benefits:
Carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A in the body, contributing to eye and skin health. They also contain fiber, which aids digestion, and are low in calories, making them a wonderful ingredient for a healthy dessert. Each serving of carrot candies has about 80 calories, depending on the amount of sugar used.

Variations:
To add a personal touch, you can experiment with various flavors. For example, you can add a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg to the carrot mixture for a warm and comforting flavor. You can also substitute some of the sugar with honey or maple syrup for a more natural option.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen carrots?
It is preferable to use fresh carrots. Frozen carrots may not have the same texture and flavor after dehydration.
- How do I store the candies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to prevent moisture absorption.
- Can I add other ingredients?
Of course! You can add chopped nuts or coconut flakes for extra texture.

Enjoy every orange ball and let yourself be carried away by childhood memories! These carrot candies are not only delicious but also a healthy choice for your indulgent moments.