Benefits of Vanilla Salt Roasted Oranges
We aim to challenge the traditional view that vanilla beans are only for desserts—they can also be the soul of everyday cooking. Today, we’re sharing an easy recipe for vanilla salt roasted oranges. This dish combines the natural sweetness of oranges with the aromatic charm of vanilla salt and leftover vanilla bean pods. Roasting softens the orange flesh, while the vanilla salt amplifies the sweetness with a hint of savory notes, bringing warmth to cold winter days. Additionally, this recipe promotes zero waste by repurposing leftover vanilla bean pods, transforming them into a secret weapon for enhancing flavors.
Ingredients for Vanilla Salt Roasted Oranges
- Oranges: Choose fresh, thin-skinned oranges for better sweetness.
- Vanilla Salt: A simple yet flavorful blend of vanilla beans and salt.
Pro Tips: Vanilla salt can be made at home by splitting vanilla pods and mixing them with salt. Store in a jar for future use. Check out this step-by-step guide: "What to Do with Leftover Vanilla Pods? 3 Easy Steps to Make Vanilla Salt!"
How to Choose Vanilla Products
Repurposing leftover vanilla bean pods is a key step toward zero waste! Even scraped vanilla pods retain a rich aroma, perfect for making vanilla extract or enhancing dishes. For this recipe, consider using affordable "imperfect" vanilla pods (short pods). They offer the same aroma as regular pods and are ideal for everyday cooking and making vanilla salt.
How to Make Vanilla Salt Roasted Oranges
Remove Bitterness
Blanch the oranges in hot water for about 1 minute. This step removes the bitterness from the orange peel, enhancing the sweet and rich flavor after roasting.
Prepare the Oranges
Cut off the top of the orange with a knife, gently peel back the skin, and expose the inner flesh.
Add Vanilla Salt
Sprinkle a small amount of vanilla salt inside the orange. Be careful not to use too much, as it may overpower the natural sweetness of the orange.
Add Aroma
Cut leftover vanilla bean pods into small pieces and place them inside the orange. During roasting, the vanilla pods release their natural aroma, adding complexity to the dish.
Vanilla salt can be made at home using sea salt + vanilla pods. Refer to this article: DIY Vanilla Salt.
Seal and Roast
Place the orange peel back on top and put the oranges in a preheated oven. Roast at 180°C (356°F) for 10-15 minutes until the aroma intensifies and the orange flesh softens.
TIP: The best time to take it out of the oven is when the peel slightly wrinkles and releases a sweet fragrance.
Consumption and Storage of Vanilla Salt Roasted Oranges
Vanilla salt roasted oranges should be enjoyed while hot. The fruit becomes tender and juicy, with a subtle hint of vanilla salt that perfectly balances sweetness and saltiness. It is recommended to eat them immediately after roasting. Vanilla salt can be made in advance and stored for later use, ideal for marinating meats or seasoning steak.
FAQ About Salt Roasted Oranges
What are the characteristics of salt roasted oranges?
From a traditional Chinese medicine perspective, oranges are mildly cooling fruits. After roasting, their nature changes to warm. Oranges are rich in vitamin C, dietary fiber, and antioxidants. Combined with the electrolytes-regulating properties of salt, they are perfect for autumn and winter consumption.
Do I need to peel the oranges before roasting?
No. After blanching and roasting, the orange peel loses its bitterness and adds a pleasant citrus aroma.
Will the oranges be too salty after roasting?
No, the vanilla salt is used sparingly as a finishing touch. A small amount of salt enhances the sweetness of the oranges, creating a balanced flavor. If it tastes too salty, it means too much salt was added—adjust the quantity next time!
Why do roasted oranges taste bitter?
If roasted oranges taste bitter, it could be because the orange peel wasn’t blanched in hot water or the roasting time was too short, leaving the bitterness of the peel intact and affecting the flavor.
