Don’t Discard Temple Orange Rinds
If there was one component of Temple Oranges that most people neglect, it would be the rind. Now some people might be taken aback by such a statement since it infers there may be some use for the orange rinds. After all, what value could the rinds of the orange present? Actually, there are many different uses for these orange rinds and it is unfortunate that they are often overlooked.
Did you know the rinds of Temple Oranges can be used for flavoring in food? Here is a lesser known way this is done: In order to sustain energy levels, bodybuilders need a lot of carbohydrates and one of the best sources of carbs is brown rice. Not many bodybuilders will enjoy eating tons of brown rice since it is not known for having much in terms of taste. As a solution to this dilemma, these athletes will cook the rice with orange rinds mixed into the pan. This is a neat trick that allows the flavor of the orange transfers to the rice. See, there are additional uses for the rinds!
Another unique use for orange peels is that of a seasoning. The way to produce Temple Orange herbal seasoning is fairly easy. You simply let the oranges dry for a few days and then run the peels across a cheese grater. The resultant residue can then be added as a seasoning to a number of food items.
Not all the many varied uses for Temple Oranges revolve around culinary adventures. Those that have a love for gardening will discover that Temple Orange peels can make a great “ingredient” in compost. An orange peel is natural, organic matter and its inclusion in a compost mix allows this matter to “return to the earth” by providing nutrients to a garden. Clearly, this is a much better way of disposing of the peels than just throwing them out.
One of the lesser known and most innovative uses for Temple Orange peels is an additive to a fireplace. The oils found in the rinds of the oranges are slightly flammable. When these rinds are places in a fireplace, they will slowly burn and emanate a unique, light smoke that will also be scented. Yes, you could literally fumigate a room with the pleasant scent of Temple Oranges by merely adding their rinds to a fireplace. The end result will be far cheaper than purchasing an aerosol spray. It will also be a lot more environmentally friendly as well!
Honestly, an author could write a book entitled 101 Uses for Temple Orange Peels and never run short on research material. Maybe one day someone will take the hint and product such a helpful title. Until then, you may have to perform a little research and invest in a little creativity. Who knows what uses you may discover for temples!
Taste the Sunshine with Hale Groves
At Hale Groves, we believe the best gifts come from the land, not a factory. For generations, our fruit has been grown slowly under the Florida sun, picked at its peak, and delivered fresh to your door. From sweet Navel Oranges to rare Honeybells, every gift shares the simple joy of real flavor—perfect for holidays, milestones, or everyday moments worth celebrating.
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