Quick answer
Use sweet orange peel in tea by steeping dried pieces in hot water for 5-10 minutes, and in baking by grinding it into a powder or adding finely chopped peel to batters and doughs.
Why use sweet orange peel?
Sweet orange peel adds a bright, natural citrus flavor without the bitterness of pith or the acidity of juice. It also contains natural oils and bio-flavonoids that contribute a gentle aroma and a hint of warmth to both drinks and dishes.
Using dried peel rather than fresh zest gives you a more concentrated flavor that lasts longer in storage. It also allows you to enjoy orange taste even when fresh oranges are out of season.
How to use sweet orange peel
- 1. Steep for tea: Place 1-2 teaspoons of dried sweet orange peel pieces in a cup. Pour 8 ounces of boiling water over the peel and let it steep for 5-10 minutes. Strain or remove the peel before drinking. For a stronger flavor, cover the cup while steeping. Don't steep longer than 10 minutes or the tea may become slightly bitter from the pith.
- 2. Grind into powder: Use a clean spice grinder or mortar and pestle to grind dried sweet orange peel into a fine powder. Sift the powder through a fine-mesh strainer to remove any larger pieces. Store the powder in an airtight jar away from light. Grind only as much as you need within a week to keep the oils fresh and aromatic.
- 3. Add to baked goods: Replace up to 1 tablespoon of the flour in your recipe with orange peel powder, or add 1-2 teaspoons of finely chopped dried peel directly to the batter. It works well in scones, cookies, cakes, and quick breads. Start with a smaller amount and taste the batter — dried peel is more concentrated than fresh zest.
- 4. Use in spice blends: Mix orange peel powder with cinnamon, clove, and ginger to create a homemade chai spice or mulling blend. Add a pinch to hot cider or mulled wine for a citrus lift. Store any blended spices in a cool, dark place and use within 3 months for best flavor.
Product spotlight
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Organic Sweet Orange Peel: Organic Sweet Orange Peel is naturally high in vitamins, minerals, bio-flavonoids, essential oils, and enzymes. This means a small amount adds both flavor and nutritional value to your tea or baked goods.
Organic Sweet Orange Peel
