Recipe Ideas to Use Leftover Oranges
Most of us buy a bag of oranges now and then. Although not local, if you buy more than a few at a time, here are some simple recipes to use up the ones leftover. Oranges are one of the main sources of food waste in England, with the average household throwing out almost 90 each year.
This is usually because the leftover ones start to spoil (you know the feeling when the peel starts to go soggy if left too long). The peel (which makes up around 20% of oranges) is usually also binned.
Orange French Toast (The Simple Veganista) is flavoured with cinnamon and vanilla, and served with maple syrup and fresh orange slices.
Who Should Avoid Eating Oranges?
Most people are fine with eating oranges, though some people on certain medications (including kidney problems) should avoid them (check the paper inserts). People with acid stomachs sometimes find they give indigestion, so avoid or use in moderation. Avoid unpasteurised juice for pregnancy/nursing, children and weak immunity.
All citrus foods are unsafe near pets, so keep these recipes (and cleaning recipes containing citrus oils) away from nosey furry friends. Read more on food safety for people and pets.
Due to acids, it’s best to avoid composting citrus fruits as they could harm garden creatures (just bin to break down naturally). Same with tomatoes, rhubarb and alliums (onion, garlic, leeks, shallots and chives).
If using tinned ingredients, fully remove lids before recycling (or pop ring-pulls back over holes, to prevent curious wildlife getting trapped inside).
Why Are Oranges So Popular in England?
Oranges are quite new to England, only arriving on our shores in the 17th century, and back then were only eaten by wealth people, with access to orangeries (large greenhouses). It’s known that Queen Eleanor (who moved to England from Spain) would order the fruits to dock at Portsmouth harbour, as she was homesick for oranges!
Today, most oranges sold in England are from southern Europe. But Pesticide Action Network writes that (along with grapes), oranges are often covered in a cocktail of chemicals, so choose organic if you can.
Spanish blood oranges can be subbed for most recipes though the taste and colour may differ. Other related fruits to oranges are mandarins, clementines and easy-to-peel Japanese satsumas.
Sticky Vegan Orange Cake
This Sticky Vegan Orange Cake (The Veg Space) is made with plant-based yoghurt and ground almonds, served with an orange drizzly syrup. It’s nice served for a tea-time treat with a hot drink, or slice and serve up slices with vegan vanilla ice-cream.
Orange Spice Hot Chocolate
Orange spice hot chocolate (The Simple Veganista) is a winter warming. Spiced with cinnamon and ginger, and sweetened with maple syrup.
5-Ingredient Whole Orange Cake
This Sicilian/Middle Eastern orange cake (Rainbow Nourishments) uses boiled oranges, including the rind. You need potato starch and almond flour (choose European brands to avoid American brands that grow using methods that harm wildlife), which may be difficult to find in shops.
You can sub with all-purpose flour and neutral oil, for a fluffier cake with less orange taste (recipe included). Serve this cake with thick plant-based yoghurt or vegan vanilla ice-cream.
