How to Make Orange Peel Tea

Leave nothing to waste by using unwanted orange peels in orange peel tea. This orange tea recipe uses the whole orange including the fruit, pith, and peel! This bright-colored tea is nutrient-dense and will make this easy tea recipe a sure favorite! 

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This caffeine-free orange peel tea is a delightful drink with a deep citrusy flavor. Made from the fragrant peels of fresh or dried oranges, this humble tea is not just another beverage. Whether you’re trying to warm up on a chilly day, looking for a soothing drink before bedtime, or seeking to boost your health, this hot cup of tea might just do the trick!

What’s Orange Peel Tea?

Orange peel tea can go by several different names such as Orange Skin Tea or Orange Rind Tea, but they are all a tea made from the peels and zest of oranges. And if you are wondering if tea can even be made with orange peels, the answer is yes! 

This tea can be made with the peels of fresh or dried oranges. Not only does it have a very citrusy flavor, but is easy to make at home and has many potential health benefits. Steeping citrus peels for tea uses up the entire fruit, saving on food waste and money. Plus, you can further enhance the flavor by adding other ingredients such as honey, cinnamon, or ginger.

What does Orange Peel tea Taste Like?

Orange Peel Tea has a pleasant, zesty flavor with a hint of natural sweetness. The taste is just like that of an oranges but not as sweet and with a lot more tang. That is why I like to finish my tea off with a bit of honey!

Orange Varieties

There are many varieties of organic oranges that can be used to brew tea. Here are a few common oranges.

• Navel Oranges: These are widely known for their sweet taste and are seedless, making them a great option for tea. The peel is thick and easy to remove.
• Valencia Oranges: Known as the ‘summer orange’, Valencia oranges are juicy and have a balanced sweet-tart flavor. This variety also has a thinner peel.
• Blood Oranges: With their vibrant red-orange peel and distinctively sweet, slightly tart flavor, blood oranges can add a unique spin to your Tea.
• Mandarin Oranges: Mandarin peels are thinner and more flavorful than common oranges. They are sweet, juicy, and ideal for an aromatic cup of Mandarin Peel Tea.
• Clementines: These are smaller and sweeter compared to other oranges. The thin, deep orange skin is easy to peel and can make a flavorful Clementine Peel Tea.

Remember, using organic oranges ensures your tea is free of any harmful pesticides or fertilizers, enhancing not just the taste but also the health benefits of your tea.

How to Make Orange Peel Tea

Kitchen Supplies

• Kitchen Knife
• Cutting Board
• Small Pot
• Tea Strainer
• Tea Cup or mug

Ingredients

• Orange Peels: You can use any type of orange to make this tea recipe, but remember to wash the oranges thoroughly before peeling to remove any dirt or pesticides. If possible, use organic oranges.
• Water: The base of any tea, the quality of water can influence your tea’s flavor. Use filtered or spring water.
• Honey: While oranges carry a natural sweetness, the peels can be a bit tart.  I like to use a bit of honey to add sweetness. Adjust to your preference accordingly.
• Spices (Optional): For a little extra warmth and complexity, consider adding spices to your Orange Peel Tea. Cinnamon sticks, cloves, or fresh ginger can be great additions. 
• Fresh Mint Leaves (Optional): For a refreshing kick, add a few fresh mint leaves to your tea. They bring a cool touch to the citrusy flavor of the tea. 

Remember, the best part about making your own Orange Peel Tea is that you can adjust the recipe to suit your own taste. Whether you like your tea strong or mild, sweet or tart, the power is in your hands!

Orange Peel Tea Recipe

Step One: Thoroughly wash and dry oranges.

Step Two: Cut oranges into slices and add them to a small pot. Use about 4 slices per cup of water.

Step Three: Pour filtered water over the fruit and set the burner to medium heat. Add optional fresh ginger slices, or other spices if desired.

Set a time for 10 minutes total.

Bring the water to a boil and then down to a light simmer until the 10 minutes are completed.

Step Four: Strain out the fruit.

Add honey or any sweetener you prefer.

Enjoy!

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Choose the right orange variety: Different types of oranges yield different flavors. Sweet and juicy oranges like Navel Oranges, Valencia Oranges, or Blood Oranges are best for tea. For Mandarin Peel Tea, go with Mandarin Oranges. If you’re looking for a sweeter cup of tea, opt for Clementines. 
• Adjust according to your taste: Feel free to add spices, sweetener, or citrus juice based on the flavor you desire.
• Strain before serving: After preparing tea, strain out orange pulp and peels.
• Brew with intention and mindfulness: Making tea can be a very calming and therapeutic experience. Take time to savor the aroma of the orange peels as you prepare your tea, and enjoy the simple pleasure of creating something with your own two hands. 
• If you love this tea, try making lemon or lime peel tea!

Serving

Once you’ve brewed yourself a cup of tea, it’s time to sit back, relax, and enjoy your creation! You can serve this tea hot or cold, depending on the season. Feel free to add honey or sweetener for extra flavor. As you sip away at your tea, take in its delicate orange aroma and smooth citrusy flavor. This tea is made with real, natural ingredients that are known to offer numerous health benefits. Taking time out of your day to enjoy this simple pleasure can be a great way to unwind after a long day. 

Storage and Shelf Life

If you have any leftover tea, it can be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated. The tea will stay fresh for a few days, however, if your tea smells rancid or developed an off-color, simply discard it and make another cup!

Why You’ll Love Orange Peel Tea

Orange Peel Tea is an amazing way to savor the natural sweetness and health benefits of oranges. It’s a great choice for those looking for a tasty beverage that offers more than just taste. Whether you’re looking to boost your immunity, improve digestion, or ward off skin-damaging free radicals, Orange Peel Tea has something special in store for you! 

• Enjoyable Flavor: Orange Peel Tea boasts a unique, pleasant blend of citrusy zest and natural sweetness, making it a delightful and refreshing beverage.
• Health-Boosting Properties: Bursting with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, Orange Peel Tea can support immune function, promote digestive health, and contribute to a glowing complexion.
• Mindful Experience: The process of making Orange Peel Tea from scratch offers a mindful and therapeutic activity, adding an extra dimension to your tea-drinking experience.
• Sustainable Choice: By utilizing the often-discarded orange peels, you are making a sustainable choice, thereby contributing to reducing food waste.
• Customizable: With the freedom to add spices, sweeteners, or other citrus fruit juices according to your preference, you can easily customize this tea to suit your taste.
• Versatile Beverage: Whether you wish to enjoy it hot on a cold winter evening, or chilled during summer, Orange Peel Tea is versatile and can be enjoyed all year round.

Does Orange Peel Tea Taste Good?

Orange Peel Tea is a delightful blend of citrusy flavor and subtle sweetness. It is has a bit of a zing to it that many find to be quite enjoyable! Depending on the variety of orange used, it may also have an underlying hint of spice or floral notes. 

Orange Peel Tea Benefits and Side Effects

Benefits of Orange Peel Tea

• High in Nutrients: Orange peels are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, including Vitamin C, potassium, and calcium, which are all essential for good health.
• Boosts Immunity: The high concentration of Vitamin C helps to boost your immune system, protecting the body against various diseases and infections.
• Aids Digestion: Dietary fibers in orange peels help regulate bowel movements, reducing the likelihood of constipation and promoting overall digestive health.
• Promotes Weight Loss: This low-calorie beverage can support weight loss efforts when combined with a balanced diet and regular exercise.
• Improves Skin Health: The antioxidant properties of oranges can help to combat skin-damaging free radicals, promoting a healthier complexion.

Possible Side Effects

• Allergic Reactions: Some people may have allergies to oranges, and thus, should avoid this drink.
• Heartburn and Acid Reflux: Due to the high citric acid content, overconsumption of this tea might cause heartburn or acid reflux.
• Possible Pesticide Residue: Unless you’re using organically grown oranges, your peels might contain pesticide residue. Make sure to wash thoroughly and preferably use organic oranges for your tea.

FAQs

Can I Make Tea with Orange Peel?

Can You Make Tea out of Orange Peels? Yes! This is a delicious beverage made with orange peels that are dried or fresh, and steeped in hot water.

How Much Orange Peel is Acceptable?

I use about 4 orange slices including peels to make a cup of tea. If you want a stronger flavor, you can add a bit more. 

How Much Orange Peel is Safe to Eat?

Consuming a small amount of orange peel is generally safe. However, it’s always best to consult with your doctor before adding them to your diet. 

What’s the Best Way to Brew Orange Peel Tea?

The best way to brew Orange Peel Tea is to add the peels to a small pot bring to a boil and then simmer for a total of 10 minutes. You can also simply steep dried peels in a teapot or strainer for around 10-15 minutes. Once done, strain the tea and enjoy! 

Can I Reuse Orange Peel Tea Leaves?

Yes, you can reuse your peels up to 3 times. However, the flavor will become a bit weaker with each use. If you need a stronger flavor, consider using fresh peels for each cup of tea. 

Is Orange Peel Tea Good for You?

Yes, this is known to be beneficial in several ways due to its nutrient-dense content. Orange peels are high in vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. However, it’s best to consult with your doctor before incorporating this tea into your diet. 

How Much Orange Peel Equals One Orange?

The amount of orange peels that would equal one orange is generally between 1 and 2 tablespoons, depending on the size of the orange. 

How Often Should You Drink Orange Peel Tea?

For the best health benefits, it is always best to drink in moderation. This should be enough for you to reap all the potential health benefits without any negative side effects. As always, please consult your doctor before making any changes to your wellness routine.

Does Orange Peel Tea Improve Skin?

Thanks to its rich antioxidant content, it may help ward off skin-damaging free radicals and promote a healthy, glowing complexion.

How to Make Orange Peel Tea for Weight Loss?

To make Orange Peel Tea for weight loss, start by adding a teaspoon of orange peels to boiling water. Cover the pot and let it steep for 5 minutes before straining the tea. You can add some honey or lemon for flavor if you desire. Enjoy this tea as part of a balanced diet and regular exercise routine for best results. 

More Tea Recipes You Will Love!

• Lime Peel Tea
• Lemon Peel Tea
• Lime Iced Tea
• Lemon Tea
• Ginger Tea
• Ginger, Lemon, and Garlic Tea with Honey
• Turmeric Tea

I hope you enjoy this cozy tea recipe. Leave a comment below and let’s connect! If you try this recipe, I’d love for you to come back and leave a review!