Orange Pearls

Bright and citrusy, orange pearls deliver zesty sweetness that elevates cocktails, desserts, and seafood.

Ingredients

  • ½ cup (125mL) fresh orange juice (strained)
  • ½ cup (125mL) cold water
  • 1 tbsp (15mL) lemon juice (optional for balance)
  • ½ tsp (2g) sodium alginate
  • 1 tsp (4.5g) calcium chloride
  • 2 cups (500mL) ice-cold water (for bath)

Instructions

  1. Juice & Strain
    • Juice oranges and strain to remove pulp. Combine with water and lemon juice.
  2. Add Alginate
    • Blend and slowly add sodium alginate while mixing. Blend for 1 minute.
  3. Rest
    • Let sit for 30–45 minutes to remove air bubbles.
  4. Strain
    • Push through a fine sieve into The Spherificator®.
  5. Prepare Bath
    • Dissolve calcium chloride in ice-cold water.
  6. Form Pearls
    • Drip from 5 inches. Cure for 45 seconds.
  7. Finish
    • Rinse and serve chilled.

Expert Tips

Flavor Ideas
  • Spiced: Add cinnamon or clove for winter flair.
  • Floral: Blend in splash of orange blossom water.
Color Tips
  • Vibrant orange: Use Cara Cara or blood oranges.
  • Clear pearls: Strain juice multiple times.
Troubleshooting
  • If too sweet: Add lemon or lime juice.
  • If pearls flatten: Cure longer or increase alginate slightly.
Serving Ideas
  • Cocktails: Add to spritzes or sangria.
  • Desserts: Use on mousse, panna cotta, or sorbet.
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