Candied: meaning, definitions and examples

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candied

 

[ˈkændɪd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

food description

Candied refers to fruit or other food items that have been preserved by sugar. This process usually involves cooking the items in a sugar syrup, which gives them a sweet flavor and a chewy texture. Candied foods are often used in baking, cooking, or as snacks. They can be made from a variety of fruits, nuts, and even flowers. The finished product can be used as a decoration or an ingredient in dishes.

Synonyms

glazed, sugared, sweetened.

Examples of usage

  • I love candied orange peel in my desserts.
  • She prepared a fruit salad with candied cherries.
  • Candied nuts make a great topping for salads.
  • The cake was garnished with candied violets.

Interesting Facts

Culinary Arts

  • Candied fruits have been enjoyed for centuries, with historical recipes dating back to ancient Egypt.
  • In traditional cooking, the process often involves boiling the food in sugar syrup until it becomes sweet and chewy.
  • Common examples include candied ginger, orange peel, and even whole fruits like cherries or lemons.

Cultural Significance

  • In some cultures, candied foods are offered during festivals and celebrations, signifying joy and abundance.
  • In Japan, candied fruits like 'kebari' are a part of traditional sweets enjoyed during special occasions.
  • Italian cuisine features 'frutta martorana', a type of marzipan that imitates candied fruit, showcasing artistic skill.

Health Considerations

  • While they are delicious, candied items are often high in sugar, making moderation important for health.
  • Some studies show that consuming higher amounts of sugar can lead to increased energy but can also result in a quick energy crash.
  • Natural alternatives, like using honey or dates, are becoming popular for those seeking a different sweetness.

Science of Sugar

  • The process of candied foods involves osmosis, where sugar draws moisture out, preserving the fruit.
  • Sugar acts as a natural preservative, extending the shelf life of candied items significantly compared to fresh fruit.
  • The carbohydrate molecules in sugar interact with the water molecules in fruit, creating that classic chewy texture.

Art and Literature

  • Candied fruits are often featured in literature as symbols of indulgence or festivities, showing their cultural impact.
  • In art, the vibrant colors of candied fruits inspire many painters, capturing their beauty in still life compositions.
  • Children's stories sometimes use candied treats as magical objects, such as in fairytales where they lead to enchanted lands.

Translations

Translations of the word "candied" in other languages:

🇵🇹 conservado em açúcar

🇮🇳 चीनी में डूबा हुआ

🇩🇪 kandiert

🇮🇩 manisan

🇺🇦 цукерковий

🇵🇱 kandyzowany

🇯🇵 キャンディーにした

🇫🇷 confits

🇪🇸 confitado

🇹🇷 şekerlenmiş

🇰🇷 설탕에 절인

🇸🇦 مُعَسَّل

🇨🇿 candát

🇸🇰 kandizovaný

🇨🇳 糖渍的

🇸🇮 candied

🇮🇸 sykurlaður

🇰🇿 қантқа батырылған

🇬🇪 შაქრიანი

🇦🇿 şəkərli

🇲🇽 endulzado

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,821, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.