Honduran Candied Squash in Syrup

Name: Honduran Candied Squash in Syrup
Cuisine: American, Southern
Ingredients: 1 medium ayote (pumpkin or squash), peeled and cut into medium sized chunks; 2 cups brown sugar (panela or piloncillo preferred); 4 cups water; 2 cinnamon sticks; 3-4 whole cloves; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 orange peel (optional, for a citrusy note); A pinch of salt; Honduran Anafre (Bean,