Don't toss those peels! We tell you why
What's the story
Citrus peels are the unsung heroes of the culinary world! They're packed with flavor and aroma, and can totally elevate your vegan dishes. From lemons to oranges, these peels can be utilized to add depth and zest to your cooking. This article presents five creative ways to use citrus peels in vegan cooking, enhancing flavors while keeping things plant-based.
Baking
Elevate your vegan baking
Adding citrus peels to your vegan baking routine can create a surprising flavor explosion. Finely grated lemon or orange zest brings a bright, tangy pop to cakes, cookies, and breads. A single tablespoon of zest is enough to elevate your treats without overwhelming them. This easy trick not only adds a refreshing twist to your desserts but also fills your kitchen with a heavenly scent during baking.
Hydration
Refreshing citrus-infused water
Hydration doesn't have to be boring. Toss some citrus peel strips into your water for a zesty upgrade. Lemon, lime, or orange peels work great, infusing your water with essential oils for a hint of natural flavor. This will help you drink more water without adding sugar or artificial flavors. Say goodbye to plain water!
Cleaning
Homemade citrus peel cleaning agent
Turns out, citrus peels aren't just a tasty treat - they're also nature's secret weapon against grime! By soaking citrus peels in vinegar for two weeks, you can create a potent, eco-friendly cleaner. This magical mix not only blasts through grease but also leaves surfaces shining and smelling great. Plus, it's a fantastic way to repurpose potential waste and reduce the use of chemical-based cleaners in your home.
Seasoning
Create aromatic citrus salts
Level up your seasoning game by creating your own citrus-infused salts. Simply combine finely grated citrus peel (lemon, lime, orange, or grapefruit) with coarse sea salt in equal parts. Allow the mixture to dry completely before storing it in an air-tight container. These fragrant salts are perfect for seasoning vegetables before roasting or as a finishing touch on salads and soups, adding a burst of flavor to any dish.
Beverage
Flavorful Citrus Peel Tea
Citrus peel tea is a tasty and healthy way to end your meal. It helps digestion and strengthens your immunity with vitamin C. Just boil dried citrus peels in water for 10 minutes until the essence seeps into the tea. You can blend different peels like lemon, orange, and grapefruit for a unique flavor or use one type for a pure taste.