Glyko Portokali Me Sokolata Orange And Chocolate Preserves

Instructions

1. Wash the oranges thoroughly and pat them dry. Using a vegetable peeler, peel the zest of two oranges into long strips, avoiding the bitter white pith. Chop the zest finely and set aside.

2. Cut the peeled oranges in half and juice them, removing any seeds. Strain the juice through a fine mesh strainer to remove any pulp and set the juice aside in a bowl.

3. In a large saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Add the chopped orange zest and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

4. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the zest and sugar syrup for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Add the orange juice to the saucepan and continue to simmer the mixture on low heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a syrup-like consistency, about 30-40 minutes.

6. Once the preserve has thickened, stir in the dark chocolate chips until they melt and blend into the orange mixture. The chocolate will add a rich depth of flavor to the preserves.

7. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract, ensuring it is well incorporated. Allow the preserves to cool slightly before transferring them to sterilized jars for storage.

8. Seal the jars tightly and store them in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld and intensify. The preserves will continue to thicken as they cool.