You can preserve orange peel for tea by drying it. Drying concentrates the orange flavor, making it perfect for brewing flavorful tea.
Methods for Drying Orange Peels
Here are some straightforward methods for drying orange peels to preserve them for tea:
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Air Drying:
- Place the orange peels on a paper towel on the counter.
- Allow them to dry at room temperature for a few days.
- The peels are ready when they are dry and brittle.
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Oven Drying: (Reference information included: "dry them on the counter or in the oven!")
- Spread the orange peels on a baking sheet.
- Set your oven to a low temperature (e.g., 170-200°F or 75-95°C).
- Dry the peels in the oven until they are fully dried.
Why Dried Orange Peel?
- Enhanced Flavor: Dried orange peels often have a more intense flavor compared to fresh peels, making them ideal for tea. (Reference information included: "They actually have more flavor in a dried state.")
- Longer Shelf Life: Drying prevents mold growth and spoilage, extending the shelf life of the peels.
By following these simple drying methods, you can ensure that you always have flavorful orange peels ready for your next cup of tea.
