Boiling orange peels and cloves: an old custom of our grandmothers…
Peels from 2-3 oranges
1-2 tablespoons of whole cloves
Water
Instructions:
Prepare the Peels:
Use a vegetable peeler or a knife to peel the oranges. You can also include some of the orange flesh if you want a stronger aroma.
Combine Ingredients:
Place the orange peels and cloves in a medium-sized pot.
Add Water:
Fill the pot with enough water to cover the peels and cloves.
Boil:
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
Simmer:
Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer. You can simmer it for as long as you like, adding more water as needed to prevent it from boiling dry.
- Tips:
- Reuse: You can reuse the same peels and cloves for a couple of days by adding more water each time you reheat the mixture.
- Additions: Feel free to add other aromatic ingredients like cinnamon sticks, star anise, or a few drops of vanilla extract for a more complex fragrance.
- Safety: Always keep an eye on the pot to ensure it doesn’t dry out, as this can cause the peels and cloves to burn.
- Conclusion:
- This old-fashioned method of boiling orange peels and cloves is a wonderful way to bring a natural, pleasant aroma into your home. It’s a simple, cost-effective, and eco-friendly alternative to commercial air fresheners, connecting us to the comforting traditions of our grandmothers.
