Orange peels are often discarded without a second thought, but did you know they can be transformed into a comforting, flavorful tea with health benefits? This simple yet effective recipe combines dried orange peels, ginger, and a touch of brown sugar to create a warming beverage perfect for cold winter days. Follow these steps to make your very own ginger-infused dried orange peel tea.
Why Use Orange Peels?
Orange peels are rich in essential oils, antioxidants, and natural compounds that promote respiratory health and aid digestion. Pairing them with ginger and brown sugar enhances their warming and soothing effects, making this tea an excellent remedy for winter chills and minor colds.
Ingredients
- Fresh orange peels from mature, ripe oranges
- Fresh ginger (preferably aged for its stronger flavor)
- Brown sugar (optional, to taste)
- Water
Preparation Steps
1. Clean the Orange Peels
- Peel the oranges, ensuring minimal white pith remains on the peels to avoid bitterness.
- Place the orange peels in a large bowl of water.
- Add a tablespoon of salt and stir to dissolve. Soak the peels for about 10 minutes. This step helps remove any pesticide residues and reduces the natural bitterness of the peel.
- After soaking, rinse the peels under running water and scrub gently to remove any remaining impurities.
2. Slice the Peels and Prepare Ginger
- Pat the orange peels dry with a clean towel and cut them into thin strips.
- Peel the ginger and slice it into thin strips to match the size of the orange peel.
3. Dry Roast the Orange Peels
- Heat a large, dry skillet over medium heat and add the orange peel strips.
- Stir continuously for about 10 minutes to remove excess moisture. Be diligent in stirring to prevent the peels from burning, as burned peels can taste bitter.
4. Combine with Ginger
- Once the orange peels start to dry out, add the ginger strips to the pan.
- Reduce the heat to low and continue stirring until both the orange peels and ginger are fully dried and slightly crispy. This process may take another 10–15 minutes.
5. Cool and Store
- Remove the mixture from the heat and allow it to cool completely in the pan.
- Once cooled, transfer the mixture to an airtight container, ensuring the container is clean, dry, and free from oil. You can sterilize the jar beforehand by steaming or boiling it and allowing it to dry.
How to Make the Tea
- Take a small handful of the dried orange peel and ginger mixture and place it in a cup or teapot.
- Add a teaspoon of brown sugar, or more if you prefer a sweeter taste.
- Pour hot boiling water over the mixture and let it steep for 5–10 minutes.
- Stir to dissolve the sugar, then sip and enjoy the warm, fragrant tea.
Benefits of Ginger-Infused Orange Peel Tea
- Relieves Cough and Phlegm: The combination of orange peel and ginger helps to soothe the throat and loosen mucus.
- Improves Digestion: Orange peel aids in reducing bloating and indigestion, while ginger stimulates digestive enzymes.
- Boosts Immunity: Rich in antioxidants, this tea supports your body’s natural defense system.
- Warms the Body: Both ginger and orange peel have warming properties, making this tea ideal for cold winter days.
- Reduces Stress: The aromatic oils in orange peel provide a calming effect, helping you relax.
Storage Tips
- Store the dried orange peel and ginger mixture in a cool, dark place. Properly stored, it can last for up to six months without losing its flavor or effectiveness.
- Ensure the container is sealed tightly after each use to keep moisture and contaminants out.
This homemade ginger-infused dried orange peel tea is more than just a comforting winter drink—it’s a natural remedy packed with health benefits. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, it’s a sustainable way to repurpose orange peels while keeping your family healthy and warm during the colder months.
Try making this tea at home, and you might find it becomes a staple in your winter routine!
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