If you’re looking for a fun and easy way to use the skins of clementines, look no further! These brilliant ideas are perfect for using up to the last bit. Whether it’s a natural air freshener or a delicious accent in your next recipe, clementine skin is so versatile. Read on to find out some of our favorite ways to use it.
If you’re like me, you always have a few clementines on hand. They are perfect for a quick snack or as an addition to a healthy lunch. But what about the skin? Don’t throw it in the trash! There are actually many uses for clementine skin. Here are nine great ideas to get you started:
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Make candied peels:
Candied clementine rinds are delicious and surprisingly easy to make. Simply simmer the zest in sugar water until soft, then coat in sugar. Enjoy them as is or use them to decorate cakes or cupcakes.
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Add flavor to cocktails:
The skin of the clementine can add a nice flavor to cocktails. Try adding a bark strip to gin martinis or vodka sodas.
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Make marmalade:
Making marmalade is a delicious way to use up any excess citrus you may have. The key to making a good marmalade is to use the whole fruit, including the skin. The skin of clementines is particularly well suited for making marmalade, as it is thin and easy to remove.
To make your own clementine marmalade, start by simmering the skin in water for about 10 minutes. This will soften the skin and make it easier to remove. Once the skin has softened, add the clementines, sugar and lemon juice to a saucepan and heat gently until the sugar has dissolved. Then increase the heat and boil rapidly for about 15 minutes, or until the mixture thickens. Finally, pour into sterilized jars and allow to cool completely before sealing. Enjoy your homemade marmalade on toast or waffles!
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Repel pests:
The skins of clementines contain oils that can help repel pests like ants and mosquitoes. Place strips of bark around areas where you don’t want these critters, such as doorways or window sills. You can also place peels in strategic places in your garden to keep pests away from your plants.
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Deodorize drawers and cupboards:
The fresh smell of clementines can help freshen moldy drawers and cupboards. Just place a few strips of bark in the affected area and enjoy the refreshing smell.
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Make a medley:
Citrus fruits are well known for their fresh and invigorating scent. They are therefore a popular choice for potpourri, as their scent can help mask musty odors and make a space more inviting. The skin of clementines is particularly suitable for this purpose, as it is thin and full of essential oils. To make potpourri, simply place the skins in a bowl or jar, add a few drops of citrus oil, and stir gently to combine. Then, place the bowl in a sunny location and allow the skins to dry completely. Once dry, they can be added to a vase or sachet and enjoyed for their beautiful fragrance.
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Scent the candles:
Do you have old candles that need a boost? Add a few strips of clementine bark to the melted wax, then let the candles cool completely before using them again. The smell will be wonderful!
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Use them as fire starters:
The skins of the clementine can also be used as a fire starter when camping or on the grill (just make sure to let them dry completely before). Soak strips of bark in vegetable oil overnight, then place them under some kindling for an easy fire that smells great!
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Put them inside your shoes:
If you’ve ever had the misfortune to leave your shoes outside, it could smell strong and make you regret not wearing them anymore. There are a number of commercial air freshener products, but did you know you can also use the skin of a clementine? Just put a few pieces of skin in your shoes and let them sit overnight. In the morning, your shoes will be refreshed and rid of any unpleasant smell. And above all, this natural solution is gentle on your skin and does not cause any irritation. The next time your shoes start to smell bad, grab a clementine instead of a spray.
