Clever uses for strawberry hulls and fruit peelings
In our quest for reducing food waste and exploring sustainable culinary practices, it’s time to shine a spotlight on often overlooked yet incredibly versatile ingredients—the humble strawberry hulls and other fruit peelings.
These often-discarded scraps possess hidden potential, offering an array of clever uses that can elevate your culinary creations.
Strawberry hulls: The essence of delight
Strawberry hulls, the leafy green tops removed before consumption, are often discarded as waste. However, these vibrant hulls possess a delicate essence that can be harnessed in various culinary applications:
a. Infused Water and Tea: Drop a handful of strawberry hulls into a jug of water and let it infuse for a refreshing strawberry-flavoured drink. You can also brew the hulls with your favourite tea leaves to create a unique blend of fruity goodness.
b. Flavoured Vinegar: Combine strawberry hulls with white vinegar and let the mixture sit for a week. Strain the hulls out to obtain a tangy, fruity vinegar perfect for salad dressings or as a marinade.
c. Syrups and Sauces: Simmer strawberry hulls with water and sugar to create a flavourful strawberry syrup. Drizzle it over pancakes, waffles, or desserts for a burst of natural sweetness. Similarly, blend cooked hulls with other fruits to create a delicious fruit sauce that pairs well with ice cream or yoghurt.
See also: Clever uses for banana skins
See also: Clever uses for citrus peels
Fruit peelings: A treasure trove of flavour
Beyond strawberry hulls, various fruit peelings, often dismissed as waste, can also be transformed. Here are a few clever ways to repurpose them:
a. Citrus Zest: The vibrant zest of citrus fruits like lemons, oranges, and limes contains aromatic oils that infuse dishes with delightful flavours. Grate the peelings and use the zest to add a zing to desserts, cocktails, marinades, or dressings.
b. Crispy Snacks: Before discarding fruit peels, consider turning them into crispy snacks. Citrus peels can be candied by simmering them in a simple syrup and then drying them. Similarly, apple and pear peels can be baked with a sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar to create a healthier alternative to crisps.
c. Fruit Peel Infused Oils: Infuse neutral oils, such as olive or grapeseed oil, with fruit peels to add a subtle fruity note to your dishes. Simply place the peels in a jar, cover them with oil, and let them sit for a week. The resulting infused oil can be used for dressings, marinades, or even drizzled over roasted vegetables.
Composting: The eco-friendly 0ption
Lastly, if you find no immediate use for strawberry hulls or fruit peelings, consider turning them into plant food, or composting them.
Composting not only reduces waste but also creates nutrient-rich soil for your garden. By composting these organic scraps, you contribute to a sustainable food cycle while minimizing your ecological footprint.
Lisa Lawrenson
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