Peels from citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruit are often thrown away, but they can be put to many uses in both cooking and household cleaning. The peel has its own aroma and uses, separate from the fruit itself. When properly dried and stored, citrus peels can be used for months. Here are ways to use citrus peels in the kitchen and for cleaning.
Grating and Adding Flavor
Grate orange, lemon, and grapefruit zest over milk-based desserts, yogurt, or cake batter for a light, aromatic flavor. When zesting, use only the colored outer layer and avoid the bitter white pith underneath; a fine-toothed grater makes this easier. You can also make lemon-infused olive oil by adding two or three 15 ml measures of grated lemon zest to one 200 ml measure of olive oil and letting it stand for about 2 weeks. Strain out the peel to make lemon-flavored olive oil for salad dressings and olive-oil-based dishes. The same method can be used with orange peel; the resulting oil adds a light citrus note to dessert sauces.
Using Citrus Peels as a Natural Cleaner
Put orange peels in an airtight container, cover them with enough white vinegar to come just over the peels, and let them stand for 1–2 weeks to make a pleasantly scented, chemical-free counter cleaner. After straining the mixture, transfer it to a spray bottle and use it to clean kitchen surfaces; it also works on greasy counters. Lemon peel can help remove stains that build up over time in coffee cups and drinking glasses. Put lemon peel and a little hot water in the stained glass, let it stand for a few hours, then scrub. The same method can be used for tea stains.
Homemade Citrus Peel Powder
Wash citrus peels well, cut them into small pieces, spread them on a clean cloth, and leave them to dry for a few days in a sunny spot. They can also be dried in the oven at its lowest temperature with the door left slightly open. Once completely dry, grind the peels into a powder and store it in a small jar. Add the powder to tea, yogurt, or herbal tea for a pleasant aroma and to make use of the peels. Turning the peels regularly as they dry helps them dry evenly and prevents mold.
Storage Tips
If you are not using fresh citrus peels right away, store them in an airtight bag in the refrigerator for a few days; they can also be frozen for longer storage. Grating the peels and freezing them in small portions makes them easy to use when needed. Freezing them in ice cube trays is another convenient method. Dried citrus peels can be stored for months at room temperature in a sealed jar. Keep them in a cool, dry place, since dried peels may grow mold in a damp environment. A glass jar also helps preserve their aroma for longer.