What to Do with Old Oranges?

Old oranges can be a common sight in many households. They may have been forgotten in the fruit basket or left to sit in the fridge for too long. While some may choose to throw them away, there are actually many ways to make use of them. In this article, we will explore some creative ways to use old oranges and reduce food waste.

Oranges are a versatile fruit that can be used in a variety of ways. They are packed with vitamin C and other nutrients, making them a healthy addition to any meal. However, when oranges start to go bad, they can become too sour or mushy to eat on their own. This is where creativity comes in. By thinking outside the box, old oranges can be transformed into a variety of delicious dishes and useful household items.

Whether you have a surplus of oranges or just a few that are past their prime, there are many ways to use them up. From making homemade orange juice to creating a natural cleaner for your home, the possibilities are endless. By learning how to repurpose old oranges, you can reduce food waste and save money in the process.

Making the Most of Old Oranges

When life gives you old oranges, don’t throw them out! There are plenty of ways to make use of them in the kitchen. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Creating Delicious Recipes

Old oranges can be used to create a variety of delicious recipes. Orange zest, for example, can be used to add a burst of citrus flavor to baked goods like pancakes and French toast. Simply grate the zest and mix it into the batter before cooking.

Another great way to use old oranges is to make candied orange peel. This sweet treat can be enjoyed on its own or used as a topping for baked goods. To make candied orange peels, simply boil the peels in a mixture of sugar, water, and honey until they become tender. Then, roll them in sugar and let them dry.

For those who are feeling adventurous, orange marmalade is another great option. This tangy spread can be used on toast or as a glaze for meats. To make orange marmalade, simmer fresh oranges with sugar and water until they become soft. Then, add in cinnamon and a cinnamon stick for added flavor.

Using Oranges in Beverages

Old oranges can also be used to create a variety of tasty beverages. Orange juice, for example, can be used as a base for smoothies or mixed with other juices to create a refreshing fruit salad.

For those who enjoy tea, orange zest can be added to black tea for a citrusy twist. Oranges can also be used to make orange lemonade, a refreshing drink that is perfect for hot summer days.

Finally, for those who enjoy a good cocktail, old oranges can be used to make mimosas. Simply mix orange juice with champagne or sparkling wine for a delicious and easy-to-make cocktail.

Overall, there are plenty of ways to make use of old oranges in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking, baking, or making drinks, there’s no reason to let those old oranges go to waste.

Repurposing Orange Peels

When it comes to repurposing old oranges, the peels can be just as useful as the fruit itself. Here are a few ideas for repurposing orange peels:

Natural Cleaning Solutions

Orange peels can be used to create a natural cleaning solution that is both effective and environmentally friendly. To make a cleaning solution, simply combine orange peels and vinegar in a spray bottle. Let the mixture sit for a few days, then strain out the peels and use the solution to clean surfaces around your home.

Alternatively, lemon peels, grapefruits, and limes can also be used to make natural cleaning solutions. Simply follow the same process as with the orange peels.

Creating Homemade Fragrances

Orange peels can also be used to create homemade fragrances that can be used as air fresheners or potpourri. To create an air freshener, combine orange peels, cinnamon sticks, and whole cloves in a pot of water and simmer on the stove. The fragrance will fill your home and leave it smelling fresh and clean.

Alternatively, orange peels can be dried and used in potpourri. Simply place the dried peels in a bowl and add other fragrant ingredients like cinnamon sticks and cloves.

In conclusion, repurposing old oranges is a great way to reduce waste and get more use out of the fruit. By using the peels to create natural cleaning solutions and homemade fragrances, you can save money and reduce your environmental impact.

Donating and Composting Old Oranges

Donating to Shelters and Food Banks

One of the best ways to make use of old oranges is by donating them to shelters and food banks. Many people in need rely on these organizations to provide them with fresh and nutritious food. Oranges are a great source of vitamin C, which can help boost the immune system and prevent illnesses.

When donating oranges, it is important to ensure that they are still fresh and edible. Oranges that are moldy or have gone bad should be discarded. To donate oranges, simply place them in a bag or box and drop them off at a local shelter or food bank.

Composting and Gardening Uses

Old oranges can also be used for composting and gardening purposes. Composting is the process of breaking down organic material into a nutrient-rich soil amendment. Oranges are a great addition to compost because they are high in nitrogen, which helps to speed up the decomposition process.

To compost oranges, simply chop them up into small pieces and add them to a compost bin or pile. They can also be mixed with other organic materials such as coffee grounds and vegetable scraps. The resulting compost can be used to fertilize plants and improve soil health.

In addition to composting, old oranges can also be used as a natural cat repellent. Cats are known to dislike the smell of citrus, so placing orange peels around the garden can help keep them away. Orange peels can also be used as a mosquito repellent by rubbing them on the skin or placing them around the patio.

Overall, old oranges can be put to good use by donating them to those in need or using them for composting and gardening purposes. By doing so, you can reduce food waste and contribute to a more sustainable future.