Don’t Throw Away Tangerine Peels! Make Something Simple and Delicious at Home
Tangerine peels are often discarded, but they’re packed with flavor, nutrients, and aromatic oils that can be transformed into something extraordinary. Instead of throwing them away, try these simple and delicious ideas to make the most of this versatile ingredient. You’ll save money and create something you’d usually buy at the store!
1. Tangerine Peel Tea
Turn tangerine peels into a refreshing, immune-boosting tea.
Ingredients:
- Fresh or dried tangerine peels
- 2 cups of water
- Honey or cinnamon (optional)
Steps:
- Wash the tangerine peels thoroughly to remove any residue.
- Boil the water and add the peels.
- Let it simmer for 5–10 minutes.
- Strain the tea and serve with honey or cinnamon for added flavor.
Benefits:
- This tea soothes digestion.
- Boosts immunity.
- Provides a burst of citrus aroma.
2. Tangerine Peel Candies
Create sweet and chewy candied peels for a delightful snack or dessert garnish.
Ingredients:
- Peels of 4–5 tangerines
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- Additional sugar for coating
Steps:
- Wash and slice the peels into thin strips.
- Boil the peels in water for 5 minutes to remove bitterness, then drain.
- In a pan, combine sugar and water to make a syrup, then add the peels.
- Simmer until the peels are translucent and the syrup thickens.
- Remove the peels, let them cool slightly, and coat with sugar.
- Let them dry completely before storing.
Uses:
- Enjoy as a snack, or use them to decorate cakes and desserts.
3. Homemade Tangerine Peel Cleaner
Make a natural, aromatic cleaner for your home.
Ingredients:
- A jar of tangerine peels
- White vinegar
Steps:
- Fill a jar with tangerine peels and cover them with white vinegar.
- Seal the jar and let it sit for 2 weeks.
- Strain the liquid and dilute it with equal parts water.
- Use as a natural cleaner for countertops, sinks, and glass.
Benefit:
- The citrus oils provide a fresh scent and antibacterial properties.
4. Tangerine Peel Powder
Create a versatile ingredient to use in cooking or skincare.
Steps:
- Dry the peels completely in a sunny spot or low oven.
- Grind the dried peels into a fine powder using a blender or food processor.
- Store in an airtight jar.
Uses:
- Cooking: Add to cakes, cookies, or marinades for a citrusy flavor.
- Skincare: Mix with yogurt or honey for a natural exfoliating mask.
5. Tangerine Peel Syrup
Make a sweet, citrusy syrup to drizzle over pancakes, waffles, or ice cream.
Ingredients:
- Peels of 3–4 tangerines
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
Steps:
- Simmer the peels, sugar, and water in a saucepan until the sugar dissolves.
- Continue cooking until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Strain and store the syrup in a jar.
Tip:
- Use it in cocktails or lemonades for a zesty twist.
Final Thoughts
Tangerine peels are a treasure trove of flavor and utility. From making delicious treats like candied peels and syrups to practical uses like natural cleaners, you’ll never want to throw them away again. Start using these ideas today, and enjoy the satisfaction of repurposing what would have been waste into something amazing!
Q&A for Tangerine Peel Recipes
Q1: Can I use any citrus peel for these recipes?
A1: While tangerine peels work wonderfully in these recipes, you can experiment with other citrus peels, like orange or lemon. However, be mindful of the flavor differences, as they can be stronger or more bitter.
Q2: How long can I store tangerine peel syrup and candies?
A2: The tangerine peel syrup can be stored in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. The candied peels should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the fridge for longer shelf life.
Q3: Can I use dried tangerine peels in the tea recipe?
A3: Yes, you can use dried tangerine peels for the tea recipe. Just make sure they are completely dried and stored in an airtight container until use.
Q4: How do I dry tangerine peels for the powder recipe?
A4: To dry the peels, you can leave them in a sunny spot for a few days, or you can use a low-temperature oven (around 200°F or 90°C) to dry them for 2-3 hours, turning occasionally. The peels should be fully dried before grinding.
Q5: Can I use other sweeteners in the tangerine peel syrup?
A5: Yes! You can experiment with other sweeteners like maple syrup, agave, or coconut sugar. Just be sure to adjust the quantities based on the sweetness of your choice.
Q6: Is the homemade tangerine peel cleaner safe for all surfaces?
A6: Yes, the tangerine peel cleaner is gentle and natural, but it’s always a good idea to test it on a small, inconspicuous area of a surface, especially if you have delicate materials like marble.
Q7: Can I use tangerine peel powder in savory dishes?
A7: Absolutely! The citrusy flavor of tangerine peel powder can be used in savory dishes such as marinades, dressings, or even sprinkled on roasted vegetables for a unique twist.
Tangerine peels are a versatile ingredient you can use in various ways to enhance your cooking, cleaning, and skincare routine. Try these ideas and make the most of this often-overlooked part of the fruit!