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.
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