Oranges with Caramel and Cardamom Syrup

Deep amber caramel possesses faint bitter notes that pair well with the sweet-tangy oranges. Orange-flower water infuses this simple dessert with Moroccan flair; look for it in gourmet markets or Middle Eastern grocery stores. Chilling overnight is crucial for imbuing the oranges with flavor. When adding the cardamom water to the caramel, pour down the side of the pan to prevent the caramel from sputtering too much.

Yield: 6 servings (serving size: 5 orange slices and 3 tablespoons yogurt mixture)

Ingredients

• 1/2  cup  water
• 2  cardamom pods, crushed
• 6  tablespoons  sugar
• 5  medium navel oranges (about 2 1/4 pounds)
• 1  cup  whole-milk Greek yogurt
• 2  tablespoons  honey
• 1/8  teaspoon  orange-flower water
• Mint sprigs (optional)

Preparation

1. Combine 1/2 cup water and cardamom in a small, heavy saucepan; bring to a boil. Remove from heat; cover and let stand 20 minutes. Strain through a fine sieve over a small bowl; discard solids.

2. Combine 1 tablespoon cardamom water and sugar in pan over medium heat, and cook for 9 minutes or until sugar is melted and barely golden (do not stir). Increase heat to medium-high, and cook for 1 minute or until mixture darkens to a deep amber. Remove from heat; carefully pour remaining cardamom water down the side of the pan. Return pan to medium-high heat; stir until well blended. Remove pan from heat.

3. Peel oranges. Cut each orange crosswise into 6 slices. Arrange slices on a rimmed platter; pour hot syrup over oranges. Cover and chill overnight.

4. Combine yogurt, honey, and orange-flower water in a small bowl. Serve yogurt mixture with oranges. Garnish with mint sprigs, if desired.

Nutritional Information

Calories:

170 (21% from fat)

Fat:

3.9g (sat 3g,mono 0.6g,poly 0.0g)

Protein:

3.7g

Carbohydrate:

32.3g

Fiber:

2.6g

Cholesterol:

7mg

Iron:

0.1mg

Sodium:

12mg

Calcium:

73mg