Food waste is a significant problem in many households, with a large portion of groceries often ending up in the trash. However, many of the food scraps we typically throw away can actually be repurposed in creative and useful ways. By finding new uses for these scraps, we can reduce waste, save money, and even discover new flavors and ingredients.
In this blog, I’ll share 14 clever ways to use food scraps you might usually toss.
Veggie Stock from Scraps
Save vegetable peels, ends, and stems in your freezer. Once you have enough, simmer them in water to make a flavorful stock. This homemade stock is perfect for soups, stews, and risotto. It’s healthier and tastier than store-bought versions.
Citrus Peel Cleaner
Don’t toss those lemon or orange peels. Soak them in vinegar for two weeks to create a natural all-purpose cleaner. This DIY cleaner cuts through grease and leaves a fresh scent. It’s eco-friendly and saves money on cleaning products.
Herb Stem Pesto
Herb stems often end up in the trash, but they’re packed with flavor. Blend them with olive oil, nuts, and cheese to make a tasty pesto. Use it on pasta, as a spread, or to flavor meats. This reduces waste and gives you a versatile sauce.
Apple Scrap Vinegar
Save apple peels and cores to make your own vinegar. Ferment them in sugar water for a few weeks. The result is a tangy, homemade vinegar great for dressings and marinades. It’s easier than you might think and tastes amazing.
Potato Peel Chips
Wash potato peels thoroughly and toss them with oil and spices. Bake until crispy for a tasty, zero-waste snack. These chips are crunchy, flavorful, and much healthier than store-bought versions. They’re perfect for munching while watching movies.
Onion Skin Dye
Save those papery onion skins for natural fabric dye. Boil them in water to create a rich, golden-brown color. Use this dye on eggs, fabric, or even yarn for knitting. It’s a chemical-free way to add color to various projects.
Corn Silk Tea
Corn silk, those fine threads from corn cobs, makes a soothing tea. Dry the silk and steep it in hot water for a few minutes. This mild tea is said to have health benefits and a subtle, sweet flavor. It’s a unique way to use every part of the corn.
Strawberry Top Infused Water
Before tossing strawberry tops, use them to flavor water. Add them to a pitcher of water with some lemon slices. Let it sit in the fridge for a refreshing, naturally flavored drink. It’s a tasty way to stay hydrated and reduce waste.
Cucumber Peel Face Mask
Don’t toss those cucumber peels. Blend them into a smooth paste for a hydrating face mask. Mix with a bit of honey for extra moisturizing benefits. This natural mask soothes skin and reduces puffiness, giving you a spa treatment from kitchen scraps.
Eggshell Calcium Powder
Rinse and dry eggshells, then grind them into a fine powder. This homemade calcium supplement can be added to smoothies or sprinkled on food. It’s a natural way to boost calcium intake and reduce waste. Just make sure to sterilize the shells first by baking them.
Kiwi Skin Smoothie Add-In
Kiwi skins are edible and packed with nutrients. Toss the whole kiwi, skin and all, into your next smoothie. The skin adds fiber and a slightly tart flavor to your drink. It’s an easy way to boost nutrition and reduce waste in one go.
Leek Greens Crispy Topping
The tough green parts of leeks are often discarded but can make a tasty garnish. Slice them thinly and fry until crispy. Use these crispy bits to top soups, salads, or roasted vegetables. They add a nice crunch and oniony flavor to many dishes.
Avocado Pit Plant Starter
Instead of trashing avocado pits, use them to grow new plants. Clean the pit, stick toothpicks in it, and suspend it in water. With patience, you’ll see roots and a stem grow, giving you a free avocado plant. It’s a fun project that turns kitchen waste into greenery.
Coffee Ground Body Scrub
Used coffee grounds make an excellent exfoliating scrub for your skin. Mix them with coconut oil and a bit of sugar. This homemade scrub leaves skin smooth and smelling great. It’s a spa-like treatment from something you’d normally throw away.
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