Orange peel is an amazing fruit part that is often discarded without a thought. However, it is packed with a lot of nutrients that can be of benefit to the body. Here are nine surprising ways to make the most of your orange peels.
1. Orange Peel Tea
Orange peel tea is a refreshing and tasty drink that offers many health benefits. To make this tea, you will need to dry the orange peel first. Once the peel is dry, cut it into small pieces and add it to boiling water.
Allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes and then strain. Your orange peel tea is now ready to drink. This tea is rich in antioxidants that help to relieve stress, boost immunity, and fight inflammation.
2. Candied Orange Peel
Candied orange peel is a sweet and delicious treat that can be enjoyed on its own or added to baked goods such as cakes and cookies. To make this treat, you will need to blanch the orange peel first to remove the bitterness.
Once the peel is blanched, cook it in a syrup made of sugar and water until it is translucent. Allow the peel to cool and then roll it in granulated sugar. Candied orange peel is a good source of fiber and vitamin C.
3. Orange Peel Honey Scrub
Orange peel honey scrub is a fantastic facial scrub that can help to remove dead skin cells and improve the skin’s texture. To make this scrub, you will need to dry and grind the orange peel into a powder.
Mix the powder with some honey and apply the mixture to your face. Massage your face in a circular motion to remove dead skin cells and then rinse with warm water. This scrub can help to brighten the skin and reduce the appearance of acne scars.
4. Orange Peel Cleaner
Orange peel cleaner is a natural way to clean your home without using harsh chemicals. To make this cleaner, add some orange peels to a jar and cover them with vinegar. Allow the mixture to sit for a few weeks, shaking occasionally.
Strain the mixture and transfer it to a spray bottle. You can use this cleaner to clean your kitchen and bathroom surfaces. This cleaner is effective at getting rid of stains and leaving a fresh citrus scent.
5. Orange Peel Marinade
Orange peel marinade is a flavorful marinade that can be used on meat, fish, or vegetables. To make this marinade, combine some orange peel, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. Mix well and pour over the meat or vegetables.
Allow the mixture to marinate for a few hours before cooking. This marinade adds flavor and tenderizes the food.
6. Orange Peel Powder
Orange peel powder is a versatile ingredient that can be used in cooking and baking. To make this powder, dry the orange peel and grind it into a fine powder. You can add this powder to your baked goods such as cakes, cookies, and muffins.
It can also be used as a seasoning for meat and vegetables. Orange peel powder is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.
7. Orange Peel Infused Oil
Orange peel infused oil is an excellent ingredient for salad dressings and marinades. To make this oil, add some orange peel to a jar and pour in some olive oil. Allow the mixture to sit for a few weeks, shaking occasionally.
Strain the mixture and transfer it to a bottle. Orange peel infused oil adds a citrus flavor to your dishes and is rich in antioxidants.
8. Orange Peel Potpourri
Orange peel potpourri is a natural way to freshen up your home. To make this potpourri, dry some orange peel and mix it with other dried herbs such as lavender and rosemary.
Place the mixture in a bowl and add a few drops of essential oils such as lemon or peppermint. This potpourri is a great way to add a fresh citrus scent to your home.
9. Orange Peel Fire Starters
Orange peel fire starters are a natural alternative to chemical fire starters. To make these fire starters, dry some orange peel and cut it into small pieces. Place the pieces into a paper egg carton and pour melted wax over them.
Allow the wax to cool and then cut the carton into individual cups. These fire starters are effective at starting fires and add a citrus scent to your home.