Candied Buddha's Hand Citron

Step 4 Strain and Dry

Once the Buddha's Hand has been cooked to the thread stage, turn off the heat and cool it in the pot for half an hour or so. The resting period helps the syrup to fully penetrate the fruit.

Now strain the fruit from the syrup, allowing it to sit again to ensure as much syrup as possible is removed. The syrup is truly delicious and should be saved. If you add it to a cup of black tea it is remarkably similar to Earl Grey (which incidentally is flavored with bergamot, a relative of citron.)

Spread the strained Buddha's Hand over a cookie sheet and allow it to dry. You may accelerate the process with a fan, if you are impatient like me :) Allow it to cure overnight. A very fine crystallized coating may form on the outside, which is a great sign. The candy may now be stored in an airtight container and used however you see fit!

Enjoy!