10 Surprising Recipes That Put Leftover Orange Peels To Work

Orange peels are typically thrown away without much thought, but did you know that they are a great source of flavor, aroma, and even nutrients? Orange peels can be used to make savory, sweet, and even refreshing dishes because they are a natural source of bitterness, essential oils, and antioxidants. You can use those vibrant peels in the kitchen to make desserts, drinks, sauces, and snacks instead of throwing them away. Get the most out of your oranges, cut down on waste, and spice up your cooking with these ten surprisingly simple yet delicious recipes. So the next time you’re munching on an orange, try one of these instead of throwing away the peel!

1. Candied Orange Peels

Sweet and chewy, candied orange peels are a lovely snack or garnish. To start, soften and eliminate the bitterness by simmering thinly sliced orange peels in water. After that, cook them in sugar syrup until they become translucent, and then sprinkle them with powdered sugar to finish. They’re delicious on their own, in baked goods, or dipped in chocolate. They are a fantastic way to use up the entire fruit in addition to tasting fantastic. Enjoy them for weeks if you keep them in an airtight container. This recipe transforms something you would typically throw away into a homemade treat, making it a favorite in many kitchens due to its charm and simplicity.

2. Orange Peel Tea

Warm and calming, orange peel tea has digestive benefits and a zesty scent. Simply soak the peels in hot water after drying them in the sun or an oven. To make your own soothing concoction, you can add spices like cloves, ginger, or cinnamon. This flavonoid-rich, caffeine-free tea can ease mild stomach discomfort and bloating. Its natural vitamin C content makes it an excellent immune booster as well. On cold days, enjoy it hot, and in warmer weather, serve it iced with a little honey. Plus, you don’t need fancy teabags to improve your mood—just the scent will!

3. Orange Zest Sugar

Add orange zest to granulated sugar to turn plain sugar into a colorful citrus treat. Just pulse sugar and dried or fresh zest in a food processor until thoroughly combined, then allow to dry before storing. The outcome is a sweetener that adds life to teas, cookies, muffins, and even toast when sprinkled on top. It also smells like sunshine. With very little work, this infused sugar is a great way to add flair to regular recipes. It also makes a beautiful homemade present. Any dish is brightened by the strong yet well-balanced citrus kick that the sugar receives from the natural oils in the peel.

4. Orange-Infused Olive Oil

Try orange-infused olive oil if you want to upgrade your cooking oil to a gourmet level. Strain and store in a clean bottle after gently warming olive oil with fresh orange peel strips to allow the flavors to infuse. The end product is an exquisitely fragrant oil that is excellent in marinades, salad dressings, and even baking. It is a versatile pantry item that goes well with vinegar, herbs, and spicy flavors. To preserve its freshness, keep it in a dark, cool place. This recipe not only makes your kitchen look more elegant, but it also creatively reduces waste.

5. Orange Peel Powder

A fragrant powder made from dried orange peels can be used in savory and sweet recipes. Clean the peels well, let them air dry or dry in a low oven, and then use a spice grinder to grind them into a fine powder. Smoothies, yogurt, cake batter, spice blends, and even face masks can all benefit from the addition of this powder. It has a zesty, slightly bitter punch that gives recipes depth and is loaded with antioxidants. It works particularly well if you want the flavor of oranges without the moisture of fresh peel. Keep it in a spice jar so you always have a citrus boost on hand.

6. Orange Peel Syrup

Desserts, pancakes, and drinks can all be improved with the addition of orange peel syrup, a sweet and fragrant liquid. Orange peels should be simmered with sugar and water until the mixture thickens and becomes syrup. After straining, put it in a sterile jar. For added flair, you can add extras like vanilla or cinnamon. This syrup tastes great drizzled over yogurt and ice cream, in lemonade, or in cocktails. For people who enjoy homemade ingredients with a twist, this is a novel way to capture the essence of oranges in liquid form. It is also a great staple to have on hand because it keeps well in the refrigerator for weeks.

7. Orange Peel Marmalade

Orange peel marmalade is a tasty way to preserve citrus flavor if you have time for a weekend cooking project. To make a sweet-tart jam, combine the fruit’s flesh, sugar, lemon juice, and finely chopped peels. The citrus’s pectin aids in the marmalade’s natural gelation, and the peels give it chew and complexity. For a burst of color, swirl it into yogurt or spread it on toast or scones. Jars of homemade marmalade also make a lovely present. The outcome is a richly flavorful preserve that utilizes every bit of the fruit, but it may require patience.

8. Savory Orange Peel Sauce

Orange peels aren’t just for desserts; they also give savory foods a wonderful depth. To make a zesty, fragrant sauce that goes well with tofu, grilled vegetables, or stir-fry, simmer finely chopped peels with garlic, soy sauce, vinegar, and a little sugar. The bitterness of the peel counterbalances the sauce’s sweetness and salt. If you enjoy strong, punchy flavors, this is a great way to try using citrus in your savory cooking. If you want it hotter, add some chili flakes. You can also use the sauce as a marinade, dip, or glaze. Compared to a store-bought sauce, it is much more exciting, colorful, and adaptable.

9. Orange Peel Cleaning Scrub

This homemade orange peel scrub is safe and useful in the kitchen, but it’s not edible! To make a natural, non-toxic scouring powder, blend dried peels with baking soda and a small amount of coarse salt. Cutting boards, stovetops, and sinks all benefit greatly from its use. While the natural oils in the peel leave a fresh scent, the citric acid in the peel aids in the breakdown of grease. Peels can be used in this eco-friendly and useful way to cut down on the amount of chemical cleaners you use around the house. Making something useful out of something that would otherwise end up in the trash is also gratifying. Before blending, just make sure the peels are completely dry.

10. Orange Peel Granola

Add finely chopped candied or dried orange peel to your oats, nuts, and seeds to give your homemade granola a zesty twist. In addition to providing an unexpected flavor boost, the bright, citrusy notes counterbalance the richness of honey or maple syrup. Dried cranberries, coconut, almonds, and cinnamon all go nicely with orange peel. It adds a cool touch to granola, whether it’s baked in clusters or added after baking. You’ll have a nutritious, high-energy snack for the week if you make a large quantity. It’s a great way to use something you’d typically throw away to make your breakfast routine more elegant.