Living Zero Waste - Benefits for you:
- Karen Onove
- Sep 10
- 3 min read
In today's world, where sustainability is more important than ever, finding ways to use every part of your food items is crucial. Not only does it help reduce waste, but it also saves you money and can elevate your culinary creations. Instead of simply discarding leftover bits and pieces, consider their hidden potential. Let’s explore some creative ways to maximize your kitchen ingredients!
Embrace Vegetable Scraps
Did you know that vegetable scraps can be transformed into a flavorful broth? Instead of tossing onion peels, carrot tops, and celery leaves, collect them in a bag and store them in your freezer. When you have enough, simmer these scraps in water for about an hour. This not only cuts down on waste but enhances your soups and stews with rich flavors. For instance, making broth from vegetable scraps can reduce your grocery bill by an estimated 10% over time, as you’re utilizing what you already have.
Fruit Peels and Cores
Fruit peels and cores are often tossed out, but they offer a variety of uses. For example, apple cores can be used to make homemade apple cider vinegar. Just place the cores in a jar, cover them with water, and let them ferment for about three to four weeks. You can also candy citrus peels by simmering them in sugar syrup, turning them into a tasty treat. Research shows that using fruit scraps can increase your overall yield in the kitchen, allowing you to make up to 15% more meals from your grocery purchases.
"Yesterday i was infusing oils with tumeric and then squeezed lemon juice to put in the freezer for soap i made today. After using the lemon for the juice i cut some slices and dried them overnight to add as decoration to the soap.
I also peeded the skin and dried it. I will use this later as dried lemon powder to infuse into oil for skin care products.
I also put some down my drain (always good for fresh sink fragrance).
Next on my list was to put powder with my laundry detergent and if i choose to later i can make lemon essential oil to add to my dryer balls to make my clothes smell fresh.
I used every ounce of the lemons."
Herb Stems Are Gold
When chopping fresh herbs, don’t discard the stems! They are full of flavor and ideal for stocks, sauces, or even homemade pestos. For example, parsley stems can be diced and added to soups, while basil stems can be blended into a vibrant pesto, giving new life to each herb. This practice not only reduces food waste but also maximizes the flavor profile of your dishes. By using stems, you can enhance the taste of your meals without needing to buy additional herbs.
The Power of Greens
When you buy beets or radishes, remember to use the greens as well! Beet greens are nutritious and can be sautéed with olive oil and garlic for a tasty side. Radish greens can be blended with nuts and cheese to create a vibrant pesto or tossed into salads for a spicy twist. Incorporating these greens can significantly enhance the nutritional value of your meals, as they are rich in vitamins A and K. Utilizing greens can reduce waste while providing fresh, wholesome ingredients.
Nuts and Seeds
Don't overlook the shells and pulps of nuts and seeds! While they may not be edible, they can flavor stocks when simmered or used as mulch in your garden. Leftover nut pulp from making almond or cashew milk can be dried out and added to baked goods or smoothies, boosting their fiber content significantly. This way, you can further enhance your meals while minimizing food waste and maximizing your resources.
Final Thoughts
Maximizing your kitchen by using every part of your food items is a sustainable choice that can also unleash your creativity. By embracing vegetable scraps, fruit peels, herb stems, bread ends, greens, and nut shells, you not only enhance your cooking but also contribute to reducing waste. So, next time you’re preparing a meal, remember to think twice before discarding any part of your ingredients—there's a world of flavor waiting to be uncovered!
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