Chocolate Citrus Sticks recipe

4 medium oranges
2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
2 1/2 cups water
6 ounces semisweet chocolate

Cut the fruit in half and remove the flesh (reserve for another use), saving only the colored zest and a thin layer of white pith. Cut into strips about 1/4 inch wide and 2 to 3 inches long.

Drop strips into pan of cold water, place over medium-high heat and bring to boil. Drain and repeat three times. During last boiling, continue cooking and simmer 30 minutes. Drain again and reserve strips.

Combine sugar and water in saucepan over mediium heat and stir to dissolve sugar. Add strips and bring to boil. Lower heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until strips are translucent and tender.

Remove strips with slotted spoon and place on wire rack. Allow to dry for 8 hours or overnight.

Melt chocolate in top of double boiler over simmering water. Dip strips a few at a time to coat. Remove to sheet of aluminum foil and allow chocolate to set. Store in tightly covered container in refrigerator.

These keep indefinitely.

Variations: Instead of 4 oranges, try 3 grapefruit or 6 lemons or tangerines.