There are many uses for citrus peels.
The uses for citrus peels are nearly unlimited; they can be used for everything from flavoring shortbread to enhancing tart lemonade. They are also the perfect component for a nice home fragrance or to hide the smell of vinegar in homemade cleaning products. From infusing vodka to making candied fruit, there are many great uses for citrus peels.
Make Candied Peels
Cut the peels into four vertical segments, slice them into 1/4-inch-wide strips and place them in a large pot of boiling water for 15-20 minutes. Drain, rinse and drain again. Bring three cups of sugar and three cups water to a boil, stir to dissolve the sugar, add the peels and return to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until peels are soft (about 45 minutes). Drain and toss the peels into a cup of sugar on a baking sheet. Transfer to a sheet of foil to dry.
Freshen the Air
Turn citrus peels into a refreshing household fragrance by putting a small pan of water on the stove at low heat and adding leftover citrus peels. The smell of citrus is said to help ease depression, and cleanliness is associated with the smell, as evidenced by many household and beauty products. Add a cinnamon stick or a few cloves for a more complex fragrance.
Infuse Liquor
Chop at least one cup of leftover citrus peels and add to a large glass container with a lid. Pour in 750 mL of vodka, shut the top and shake well. Let the citrus and vodka mixture steep in a dark place at room temperature for up to one week. When the citrus vodka is infused, pour it through coffee filters set in a mesh strainer and refrigerate. Keep in the freezer for a longer shelf life.
Make a Citrus Vinegar Household Cleaner
Fill a large jar 3/4 of the way with citrus peels, cover with white vinegar and let sit for at least two weeks. Shake the jar every now and then to distribute the contents. To use as a window, floor, counter-top or kitchen appliance cleaner, dilute the mixture in water at a 1/2 cup per gallon. To use on the stove top, just spray the mixture undiluted from a spray bottle.
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