Simple ways to use apple peels
What's the story
While we often throw away apple peels, they are packed with so much potential in the kitchen.
Rich in nutrients, apple peels can give flavor and texture to a variety of dishes.
From reducing waste to making your meals even healthier, using apple peels in cooking can do wonders.
Here are some cool ways to get the most out of apple peels.
Tea infusion
Infuse flavor into teas
Apple peels can be added to teas to infuse a subtle sweetness and aroma into them.
Just dry the peels, and add them into your tea leaves before brewing.
The natural sugars of the apple peels will elevate the flavor profile of herbal or black teas, giving them a refreshing twist without any added sweeteners.
Vinegar creation
Create homemade vinegar
Transform apple peels into homemade vinegar by fermenting them with water and sugar.
This process takes about two weeks, yielding a tangy vinegar that you can use for salad dressings or marinades.
The acidity from the vinegar adds depth to dishes while utilizing what would otherwise be kitchen waste.
Baking addition
Add texture to baked goods
By adding finely chopped or grated apple peels to muffins or bread, you add not just texture but moisture, too.
These natural fibers are essential in keeping the moisture intact during the baking process, making sure that your pastries stay softer for longer.
The hint of fruity flavor they bring goes perfectly with traditional spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, elevating the taste of your bakes without overpowering them.
Smoothie boost
Enhance smoothies with fiber
By blending apple peels into your smoothies, you can easily add an additional dose of fiber. This greatly improves digestive health without changing the taste.
These peels are packed with crucial vitamins just under their surface. So, they make an excellent addition to your health-centric drink options.
This easy step not only makes for a richer nutritional profile but also ensures you're using every part of the apple for optimal benefits.
Sweetener crafting
Craft natural sweeteners
Boil down apple peels with water until they reach a syrup-like consistency.
Voila! You've got an all-natural sweetener perfect for drizzling over pancakes or mixing into yogurt bowls.
This way, you efficiently capture both sweetness and nutrients from leftover peelings, while also offering versatility across different recipes.