Orange peels are often discarded without a second thought, but they’re packed with flavor, nutrients, and potential! Instead of throwing them away, transform them into these two incredibly delicious and easy recipes.

1. Candied Orange Peel

Ingredients:

• Peels from 4 large oranges

• 1 cup of granulated sugar, plus extra for coating

• 1 cup of water

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Peels:

   • Carefully remove the peels from the oranges.

   • Cut the peels into strips and remove as much of the white pith as possible to reduce bitterness.

2. Blanch the Peels:

   • Place the peel strips in a pot of boiling water for about 15 minutes to soften and remove some bitterness.

   • Drain and rinse under cold water. Repeat this process twice.

3. Make Syrup:

   • In the same pot, combine 1 cup of sugar with 1 cup of water. Bring to a simmer and stir until the sugar dissolves.

4. Cook the Peels:

   • Add the orange peels to the syrup and simmer for about 45 minutes or until they become translucent.

5. Dry and Coat:

   • Using tongs, remove the peels from the syrup and let them dry on a wire rack for about 4-5 hours.

   • Once dry, toss them in granulated sugar until well coated.

6. Storage:

   • Store the candied peels in an airtight container at room temperature.

2. Orange Peel Tea

Ingredients:

• Peels from 2 oranges

• 4 cups of water

• Honey or sugar to taste (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Peels:

   • Thoroughly wash the oranges before peeling to remove any pesticides or wax.

   • Use a peeler to create thin strips, avoiding as much of the white pith as possible.

2. Make the Tea:

   • Place the orange peels in a pot with 4 cups of water.

   • Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes.

3. Sweeten and Serve:

   • Strain the tea into cups.

   • Add honey or sugar if desired, and enjoy a warm, soothing drink.

Benefits and Tips:

• Nutritional Boost: Orange peels are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which can boost your immune system.

• Flavorful: These recipes provide a great way to add citrusy zest to your diet.

• Economical: Using orange peels in your cooking reduces waste and saves money.

By using orange peels in these creative ways, you not only reduce waste but also enhance your culinary repertoire with unique flavors. Try these recipes today and discover the potential in what you might otherwise throw away!