Aged Tangerine Peels (Chenpi)
Ingredients: Tangerines, Salt, Baking soda · 300 min cook time · ~₩25,200
Ingredients
10kg Tangerines, 2tbsp Salt, 2tbsp Baking soda
Instructions
1. Fill your sink with water and dissolve 2 tbsp of salt and 2 tbsp of baking soda. Soak the tangerines for 30 minutes to neutralize pesticides.
2. After soaking, gently rub the tangerines with a clean sponge. Drain the water and rinse all tangerines thoroughly.
3. Place the tangerines under a fan for a couple of hours or until there is no moisture left on the surface.
4. Using the end edge of a chef's knife, carefully score the peel into three even sections, stopping ½ inch before the dot where it connects to the stem. Insert a small spoon and gently open the peel like a flower, preserving oil glands.
5. Remove the fruit inside and repeat with the remaining tangerines. The flesh can be eaten or used for jam.
6. Place all the tangerine peels on a tray or sheet and set them under direct sunlight. Check them after 3 to 5 hours.
7. Once the peels become slightly soft and wilted, gently flip each paddle inside out. Flip the peels in the middle of the day to ensure even drying.
8. Before it gets dark, bring the peels indoors every day. Leave them covered with something not airtight on the countertop during the nighttime.
9. The next day, place them back under direct sunlight. Continue sun drying the peels for 3 to 5 days, about 4 to 6 hours each day, until they are completely dried. Remember to bring them indoors every night.
10. To check if they are done drying, take two pieces and tap them together. You should hear a dry, crispy sound.
11. During the first year, store the peels in a clean plastic bag (not sealed completely) in a dark, cool, and dry place. Sun-dry them three times a year for one to two days each time to prevent mold and insects.
12. After the first year, sun-dry them once a year for one to two days each time.
13. After 3 years of storage, transfer them into an airtight container. Open it a few times a year to allow air exchange so the chenpi can continue aging properly.
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