Health And Natural Herbs
Don’t Toss Those Citrus Castaways! Transform Orange Peels into Culinary Gold with Salty Sunshine
Ever peel an orange and mindlessly throw the rind in the trash? Not anymore! This sunshine-infused trick with a touch of salt unlocks a treasure trove of uses for your leftover orange peels. Get ready to transform what was once waste into a budget-friendly kitchen hero!
Ingredients:
- Orange peels (from untreated oranges) – amount depends on your desired use (see tips below)
- Coarse sea salt
Method:
- Grate it Up: Wash your orange peels thoroughly to remove any surface residue. Use a fine or microplane grater to remove the zest (the brightly colored outer layer). Aim for just the zest, avoiding the white pith underneath which can be bitter.
- Sunshine & Salt: In a bowl, combine the zest with a generous amount of coarse sea salt. The ratio isn’t exact, so start with a 1:1 zest to salt proportion and adjust to your taste.
- Dehydrate Your Citrus Gold: Spread the zesty salt mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer. You can choose two drying methods:
- Oven Method: Bake at the lowest possible temperature (around 150°F) for 30-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until completely dry and fragrant.
- Air Drying: For a more natural approach, spread the mixture on a plate in a well-ventilated area with indirect sunlight. This can take several days, so be patient!
Tips for Using Your Salty Sunshine:
- Culinary Canvas: This citrusy salt adds a vibrant touch to roasted vegetables, grilled fish, or sprinkled over pasta dishes.
- Infused Oils & Vinegars: Add a spoonful of the citrus salt to olive oil or vinegar and let it infuse for a week. Voila! You have a homemade flavored oil or vinegar perfect for salads or dipping bread.
- Sweet Surprise: A pinch of citrus salt can elevate the flavor of baked goods like cookies, cakes, or even popcorn!
- Potpourri Power: Dried orange peels and citrus salt make a delightful potpourri for a refreshing home fragrance.
