Candied fruit rinds were enjoyed during the Middle Ages as a way to sweeten the breath.

1. Peel citrus fruit; remove as much pith as possible. Place peels in enough water to cover. Bring to a full boil; reduce heat and simmer 30 minutes. Change water and repeat; this reduces bitterness.

2. Cool; slice citrus into strips about ¼-inch thick.

3. Mix water, salt, honey, and sugar; bring to a simmer. Put peels in syrup; continue simmering about 25 minutes.

4. Turn off heat; let rinds sit in syrup. Remove rind pieces from syrup; dry on a rack over waxed paper. Sprinkle with fine sugar; store in an airtight container.

• MAKES 20 SLICES

• INGREDIENTS

• 1 large navel orange

• 1 medium grapefruit

• 2 lemons or 2 large limes

• ¼ cup water dash salt

• ¾ cup sugar

• ¼ cup honey fine sugar (optional)