Wednesday, June 15, 2011

What to do with citrus peels?

Next time you go camping throw some orange peels in a baggie to take along.  Why?  Do you have a hard time starting the fire?  Toss the peels into the kindle before lighting the fire.  The flammable oils in the orange peels will help the peels catch on fire quickly and burn slowly which makes them ideal for starting a fire.  You will also experience a little aromatherapy.
Here's a recipe for summer ready skin:  1/2 cup sugar, 1/4 cup finely chopped lemon peel (or other citrus), then add enough olive oil to form a paste.  While in the shower, massage the citrus peel scrub in circular motion into your body.  The sugar and peel particle will slough away dead skin while the citric acid will act as an astrigent and tighten your pours.  The Vitamin C will refresh your skin and brighten it.
Does your glassware sparkle and shine?  If not, next time you do dishes drop 1/4 - 1/2 cup of citrus peels into the water and steep for 5 minutes.  Wash your dishes as normal.  The peels' citric acid will help dissolve the mineral deposits and soap scum that cause cloudiness.  Let it shine!
Remember those moth balls that grandma used to use?  Throw them out!  Cut off the foot of an old pair of panty hose and stuff 2-3 Tbs. of dried citrus peel in it.  Tie off the opening and place the sachet in your closet or storage trunk.  The citrus smell will repel moths and leave your clothes smelling fresh.
I love dipping bread in olive oil so here's a fresh idea!  Cut the peels of 3 lemons, 2 oranges, and 1 grapefruit.  Avoid the white pith and place them in a food processor with 1 cup of oil.  Pulse until well blended.  Let stand at room temperature for an hour.  Strain through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth.   It's perfect for salad dressing, fish or my favorite, dip bread into it!  Yummmm!

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