Zero-Waste Kitchen: How To Use Fruit Scrapes For Cooking

Food waste is a serious issue. Food waste increases greenhouse gas emissions, which in turn causes many of our natural resources to become depleted. Fortunately, there are many steps you can take to minimise food waste, such as meal planning, only purchasing what you actually need, and effective food storage. Utilizing food scraps rather than throwing them away is another easy approach to reduce food waste, have a smaller environmental effect, and save money. Some food scraps are too delectable to be thrown in the compost bin, while the majority of fruit and vegetable peels, stalks, and greens can be baked, boiled, roasted, or mixed into a meal to create zero waste. 

Also Read: Zero Waste: Its Time To Cook To Save

Fruit peels, such as those from apples and oranges, can be saved and used to produce a delectable jam. Making homemade jam from fruit peels: For 25 to 30 minutes, boil the peels in water. Peels are drained. Over a high heat, bring the liquid, sugar, and lemon juice to a boil. When the liquid has cooled, place it in fridge-safe jars or cans that have undergone sterilisation. Jam made from fruit peels tastes great in yoghurt bowls, chia pudding, and other healthy treats. 

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After slicing strawberries for a snack in the summer, add the tops and some basil to a pitcher of ice water to create an infused beverage. The pitcher will taste great when filled with any leftover fruit, whether it be the ends of lemons and limes, cucumber and orange peels, or the crushed blueberries at the bottom of the container. This is especially true when basil, thyme, or other fresh herbs are added. 

Candied Citrus Peels 

Keep the peels after eating an orange, lemon, lime, or another citrus fruit for a sweet treat. Peels should be boiled for about 10 minutes, or until they are just tender, and then transferred to a wire rack to dry. One cup each of sugar and water, which should be mixed in equal amounts, should be brought to a boil before adding the fruit peels. Stirring regularly will help the sugar dissolve. Boil for an additional 8 to 10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the peel has become translucent. The peels should be spread out on a rack to cool for an hour before being thoroughly coated in sugar. Use candied peels as a garnish for desserts, as a component of citrus-based cocktails, in muffins or scones, or simply as a snack.