Orange Peel Tea Recipe

Calendar icon Published: Aug 5th 2021 by Rachael Ottier Hart
Clock icon Last updated: Dec 21st 2024
Read time: 4 mins
Cuisine:
This recipe, developed through the collective effort of at least 6 experts, underwent meticulous research and testing for over 3 months. Learn more about our process in the art and science behind our recipes or read how we use AI responsibly. This post may contain affiliate links. Read our Disclosure Policy.
Close up of Orange Peel Tea in a cup

Soothe your senses with this Orange Peel Tea Recipe, a traditional Caribbean remedy for digestion and overall wellness. Made by steeping dried orange peels with optional aromatic spices like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise, this tea is rich in vitamin C and boasts a tangy, refreshing flavor. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly day or enjoy a natural boost for your stomach, this simple tea is the perfect choice.

In the Caribbean, Orange Peel Tea is something often used to cure an upset stomach. The peels from oranges are cut away from the fruit and hung out to dry, and later used to steep in hot water for tea. 

The use of citrus peels is also well documented in Chinese traditional medicine and to flavor certain dishes. In China, they use the peels of sun-dried mandarin oranges to make a tea called Chenpi. This traditional medicine was also used to assist in stomach-related issues like nausea, heartburn and to help remove gas. 

Today, orange peel tea has been credited as a great source of vitamin C and an excellent way to reset your digestion. Enjoy this simple orange peel tea to warm your body and help your tummy.

  • Health Benefits: Promotes digestion, relieves nausea, and provides a dose of vitamin C.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in just 6 minutes with minimal ingredients.
  • Customizable Flavors: Add your favorite spices to enhance the taste.
  • Perfect Anytime: Enjoy it as a morning pick-me-up or a calming evening drink.

  • Use Organic Peels: Opt for organic oranges to avoid pesticides on the peels.
  • Dry Thoroughly: Ensure the orange peels are completely dry to intensify their flavor.
  • Steeping Time: Let the tea steep longer for a stronger, more aromatic brew.

  • Sweeten with honey or a sugar substitute to balance the tanginess.
  • Add a splash of coconut milk for a creamy twist.
  • Pair with a light snack like biscotti or almond cookies for a cozy treat.

  • Replace orange peels with dried lemon or grapefruit peels for a different citrus profile.
  • Add fresh ginger slices for a spicy kick.
  • Use maple syrup or agave nectar as a vegan-friendly sweetener.
  • Infuse with green tea leaves for added antioxidants.

  • Storage: Refrigerate leftover tea in a sealed container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Warm on the stovetop or microwave before serving.

  • Dried Orange Peels: Provide a tangy, citrusy base.
  • Water: The foundation for the tea.
  • Cinnamon, Cloves, Star Anise (Optional): Add warmth and depth to the flavor.
  • Honey or Sugar: Sweetens to your preference.

Can I use fresh orange peels instead of dried ones?

Yes, but dried peels offer a more concentrated flavor. If using fresh peels, increase the quantity slightly, opt for organic ones and wash them under hot water first.

Are there any health benefits to orange peel tea?

Orange peel tea is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which support digestion, reduce nausea, and boost immunity.

Can I make orange peel tea caffeine-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally caffeine-free and can be enjoyed at any time of the day.

How to Make Orange Peel Tea

Begin by bringing 32 ounces of water to a boil in a saucepan. Add a 6-inch piece of dried orange peel along with optional spices like cinnamon, cloves, or star anise. Let the mixture boil for 3 minutes before removing it from the heat. Cover the saucepan and allow the tea to steep for at least 5 minutes, adjusting steeping time for a stronger flavor.

Once steeped, strain the tea into cups, discarding the peels and spices. Sweeten with honey or sugar to taste, and serve warm in teacups or mugs. Enjoy this aromatic and health-boosting beverage any time of day.

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Average: 5 (12 votes)
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Time & Serves

Prep Time
1 mins
Cook Time
5 mins
Total Time
6 mins
Serves
4

Ingredients

  • 6-inch piece of Dried Orange Peel

  • 32 oz Water

  • Sugar Or Honey to taste

Optional Ingredients
  • 1 Stick Cinnamon

  • 3 Whole Cloves

  • 1 Star Anise

Instructions

Using a saucepan, bring the water to a boil and add the orange peel. Also, add all or some of the optional ingredients at this time.

Overview of orange peel tea in a pot of water on the stovetop

Allow the pot to boil for 3 minutes before removing from the heat, covering and allowing to steep for at least 5 minutes. The longer it soaks, the stronger the flavor.

Orange peel tea steaming in a covered pot

Remove the ingredients from the pot with a slotted spoon and discard before re-warming the tea if necessary.

Ingredients being strained from a pot

Serve warm in teacups or coffee mugs sweetened with honey or sugar to taste.

Sideview of mugs containing orange peel tea
Optional Uses

Add a piece of dried orange peel to any dish to enhance a citrus flavor.

Rachael Ottier Hart
Author:
Culinary Storyteller & Spa Manager

More posts by Rachael Ottier Hart

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