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Introduction:
Orange peels are often discarded without a second thought, but did you know they are packed with nutrients and versatile uses? Beyond their tangy aroma and vibrant color, orange peels can add value to your home in more ways than one. From enhancing your culinary creations to serving as a natural cleaner or beauty treatment, these peels are a hidden gem in the kitchen and beyond. Read on to discover the amazing ways you can turn your orange peels into gold for your home.
Ingredients:
4 to 5 organic oranges (for their peels)
Water (for cleaning)
Sugar or honey (for candied peel version)
Spices like cinnamon or cloves (for aromatic uses)
Essential oils (for homemade orange peel oil)
Baking soda or vinegar (for natural cleaning)
Instructions:
1. Homemade Candied Orange Peel:
Peel 4 to 5 organic oranges, ensuring to keep the peel intact.
Cut the peels into thin strips and remove any excess pith.
In a saucepan, bring water to a boil, adding the peel strips. Boil for 5 minutes to remove bitterness, then drain.
In another pot, combine equal parts sugar and water (1:1 ratio). Add the orange peel strips and simmer over low heat for about 45 minutes or until the syrup thickens and the peels become translucent.
Remove the peels, letting them cool on a wire rack. For extra sweetness, roll the candied peels in sugar.
2. Orange Peel Cleaner:
Collect a jar or container. Fill it with orange peels and cover them with white vinegar.
Seal the jar and let it sit for 2 weeks in a cool, dark place.
After two weeks, strain the liquid and dilute it with water (half vinegar infusion, half water).
Use this natural cleaner on countertops, sinks, or even as a glass cleaner.
3. Orange Peel Face Mask:
Dry orange peels in a sunny spot or using a dehydrator.
Grind the dried peels into a fine powder.
Mix the orange peel powder with yogurt or honey to form a paste.
Apply this mask to your face, leaving it on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off with warm water.
4. Orange Peel Infused Oil:
Peel one orange and remove all the pith.
Place the peels in a jar and cover them with a carrier oil like olive oil.
Let it infuse for 1-2 weeks in a cool, dark place. Shake the jar every couple of days.
After 2 weeks, strain the oil and use it as a moisturizing body oil or massage oil.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving:
Candied orange peels can be served as a sweet treat on their own or as a garnish for cakes, ice cream, or cocktails.
Use your homemade orange peel cleaner in your kitchen or bathroom to eliminate tough stains and odors.
The orange peel-infused oil is a wonderful addition to your skincare routine, especially for moisturizing and soothing dry skin.
Storing:
Store candied orange peels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
The orange peel cleaner should be kept in a sealed jar or bottle and used within 3-4 months.
Dried orange peels can be stored in an airtight container for several months and used as needed for DIY projects or face masks.
Variants:
Spicy Orange Peel:
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