In our country they usually end up in the trash, but in Italy and Asia they are considered an extremely healthy addition. Citrus peels, whether dried or candied, contain valuable essential oils and antioxidants. It is worth adding them to dishes and drinks, especially with large, heavy meals.
Citrus peels are a real health bomb. They contain essential oils that have a relaxing effect on the smooth muscles of the digestive tract. Thanks to this, they relieve flatulence and the feeling of heaviness after eating. The flavonoids present in them support blood circulation and have strong antioxidant properties, protecting the body against free radicals. Vitamin C strengthens immunity, and natural bitter compounds stimulate the secretion of digestive juiceswhich makes it easier to digest fatty foods. This part of the fruit also contains the most fiber, which is beneficial for the intestines and provides a feeling of satiety for a long time.
Italian housewives serve an infusion of dried citrus peels after each heavy meal. In this way, they naturally support the functioning of the stomach and liver. Just pour hot water over a few pieces and steep for 10 minutes. This drink not only supports digestion, but also has a relaxing effect. Aromatic essential oils have relaxing properties, reduce nervous tension and help with exhaustion. In Eastern medicine, citrus peels are also used as a means of regulating “qi” energy, which translates into better well-being and balance of the body. Scientific research published in the National Librery of Medicine has proven that citrus peels reduce the risk of tooth decay. teeth because they have antibacterial properties.
In Italy, candied citrus peels are not only used to decorate desserts. In southern regions, especially Sicily, they are added to traditional cakes such as panettone or cassata. Italian housewives often prepare them in large quantities before the holidays because they believe that they improve the mood and give energy on winter days.
In folk medicine they were considered a natural “nerve medicine”. A few pieces of candied peel were supposed to relieve stress and support digestion after heavy meals.
Scientists have confirmed this relationship. Researchers from Harvard Medical School showed that Vitamin C is essential for building serotonin and dopamine, and these neurotransmitters stabilize your mood. To this day, in many homes you can still find the custom of serving tea with candied peels after a hearty dinner.
If you are thinking about candiing citrus peels, start working before you peel the fruit. In our climate, it is difficult to find citrus fruits from organic farming, the most important thing is to get rid of pesticides. Water alone won’t do much, but you can remove artificial agents in the alkaline environment created by baking soda. Immerse the fruit in a liter of water with a tablespoon of baking soda for 10 minutes. Then wipe them, peel them, eat the pulp and set aside the peels to dry.
Ingredients:
- peels from 3 large oranges or lemons;
- 500 g of sugar;
- 250 ml of water;
- sugar for rolling;
- Optional: cloves, cinnamon, vanilla pod or cardamom.
Preparation method:
Wash the fruit thoroughly and scald it with boiling water to remove the wax. Cut the peels into thin strips, trying to remove the excess white part (albedo). It gives citrus fruits a bitter taste.
Boil the peels in water for 10 minutes, strain and repeat this process 2-3 times to remove the bitterness.
In a pot, prepare a syrup of water and sugar (proportion 1:2). Add the peels to the syrup and simmer over low heat for about 45-60 minutes until they become glassy.
Remove the skins, dry them on a rack, and then roll them in sugar. Store in an airtight jar, this way they will last for several weeks. If you want to store them longer, pour hot syrup over them in a jar and they will last up to a year without damage.
At this time You can use candied peels for cakes, cupcakes, cheesecakes or desserts. Added to tea, they add aroma and at the same time improve mood and digestion. You can also use them as a snack during the day. Candied lemon peels will go perfectly with fish, and orange peels will go well with poultry and beef. Thanks to this, the meat will not only be healthier, but will also acquire a deeper, non-obvious aroma.
Source: Terazgotuje.pl
