Preparation time: 10 minutes ❀ Difficulty of preparation: Simple ❀ Number of servings: 1
Ingredients:
| 1 tsp dried orange peel |
| 1/2 cinnamon sticks |
| 1 cloves |
| 1 slice of fresh orange (optional) |
Preparation:
- Place the orange peel in a cup and pour hot water over it.
- Add cinnamon and cloves.
- Cover and let steep for about 5 minutes.
- If desired, squeeze a slice of fresh orange into the tea.
Before serving, you can strain the tea, although it’s not really necessary. The larger ingredients naturally sink to the bottom and won’t get in the way. In fact, pieces of orange peel, cinnamon, and cloves give the warm drink a special charm. Dried orange peel is often used in teas and herbal blends – it really gives that light, citrusy, fresh aroma with a slightly sweet-bitter note. However, it’s important that the peel is organic, as conventionally grown oranges are usually treated with pesticides.
Health benefits of orange peel tea
The ritual of drinking a warm cup of tea soothes the body and mind, improves circulation and hydration, while each variety brings its own unique benefits. Research confirms numerous advantages of orange peel (Source: Healthline):
- It is rich in fibre and vitamins – supporting digestion, immunity, and heart health.
- It contains polyphenols – which may help prevent chronic diseases.
- It contains limonene – which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and may protect against skin cancer.
- It may reduce inflammation in the body.
- It potentially contributes to skin protection and brain health.
The ritual of drinking a warm cup of tea soothes the body and mind, improves circulation and hydration.
Drying and storing orange peel
You might have once left orange peels by the stove or on a radiator, letting their fresh, citrusy aroma fill the room. In the same way, you can dry the peel for tea, and if you want to speed up the drying process, you can use the oven. Before drying, conventional orange peel needs to be thoroughly washed by soaking the orange in a baking soda solution for 10–15 minutes, then gently scrubbing it with a brush and rinsing well with clean water. For organic oranges, simply washing and lightly scrubbing is enough.
Easy steps:
- Preparing the orange: Wash the orange well, scrub it, and pat it dry. Peel the orange, trying to avoid as much of the white part as possible, as it is usually bitter.
- Cutting: Slice the peel into small strips or pieces.
- Drying:
- Indirect heat: Leave the peels for 1–2 days by the stove or on a radiator.
- Oven: Dry at a low temperature (50–60 °C) for 2–3 hours, turning occasionally.
- Storage: Keep the dried peels in a sealed glass container, in a dry and dark place.
Conventional oranges are usually treated with pesticides, so for consumption it is important to use organic oranges or thoroughly wash the peel to reduce pesticide intake.
Creative uses of orange peel
Dried orange peel can be used in many useful and creative ways, as it is rich in essential oils, aroma, and nutrients. Dried organic orange peel can be ground and used as a spice in dishes or in natural cosmetics, for example in baths, scrubs, and face masks. Conventional orange peel can also be used, but is best suited for purposes that do not involve consumption – such as making decorations, fragrant potpourris, or natural cleaning products. During the holiday season, they are especially suitable for creating seasonal decorations.
Happiness lies in small rituals, like preparing and sipping a warm cup of tea that soothes our body and soul. Orange peel tea is perfect for cold winter days, when peace and warmth are most welcome. If you dry the peel at home, its fresh, citrusy scent will fill the whole room, creating a warm and festive atmosphere. Enjoy your tea and any creative work!
