Orange peels are often tossed in the bin without a second thought, but they're packed with flavour and nutrients. Instead of wasting these aromatic rinds, you can transform them into delicious additions to your cooking.
From sweet treats to savoury dishes, orange peels offer a burst of citrusy goodness that can elevate your meals.
This article provides general information on cooking with orange peels. Individual tastes and results may vary.
1. Make Orange Peel Tea
Dried orange peels create a soothing, aromatic tea with a gentle citrus flavour. Simply wash fresh peels, let them dry completely on a baking tray for 2-3 days, then store in an airtight container.
When brewing, use about a tablespoon of dried peel per cup of boiling water and steep for 5-10 minutes. Add honey if you fancy a touch of sweetness!
2. Add To Salads For A Citrusy Twist
Candied orange peel bits bring unexpected bursts of flavour to green salads, especially those with bitter leaves like rocket or watercress. The sweetness balances perfectly with tangy vinaigrettes and adds wonderful texture.
For a quicker option, grate fresh zest directly over your salad just before serving. It pairs brilliantly with nuts, goat cheese, and fruity olive oils for a properly posh garden salad.
3. Candy The Peels For A Sweet Treat
Candied orange peels make brilliant nibbles with afternoon tea or as cake decorations. Start by removing the white pith, then slice the peel into thin strips. Boil these strips three times in fresh water to reduce bitterness.
Simmer in simple syrup until translucent, then roll in sugar and dry. These sweet, chewy treats can be dipped in dark chocolate for an extra special finish!
4. Use In Baking For Added Aroma
Orange zest works magic in baked goods, releasing fragrant oils that perfume the entire kitchen. Mix it into muffin batter, scone dough, or cake mix for a subtle citrus note that elevates plain recipes. The zest pairs wonderfully with chocolate, cranberries, and nuts.
For Christmas baking, combine with cinnamon and cloves in fruit cakes and mince pies for that classic festive flavour we all love.
5. Add To Sauces And Marinades
Orange peel brings brightness to savoury cooking, cutting through rich flavours with its zingy citrus notes. A strip of peel simmered in stews or braises adds depth without overwhelming other ingredients. For marinades, combine grated zest with olive oil, garlic and herbs for chicken or fish.
The natural oils in the peel tenderize meat while infusing it with subtle Mediterranean flavours that wake up your taste buds.
6. Create Orange Peel Jam
Orange peel jam offers a delightfully bitter-sweet spread perfect for morning toast or serving alongside cheese. The secret is to blanch the peels several times first, removing most of the bitterness while keeping the lovely citrus flavour.
Cook with sugar, water, and a splash of lemon juice until thick and glossy. The natural pectin in the peels helps create that perfect jammy consistency without additives.
7. Make Orange Peel Powder
Dried orange peel can be ground into a fine powder and used as a flavourful seasoning for various dishes. Add it to soups, stews, or even sprinkle it on roasted vegetables for a fragrant citrus punch.
To make your own powder, simply dry the peels, then grind them in a spice grinder. It’s a great way to preserve the zest and add a unique twist to your meals.
