While getting at the juicy sections of grapefruit I needed for a recent Imbolc grapefruit sorbet post, I was making sure not to do too much damage to the peel. Exfoliant in a future batch of soap seemed like a good idea.
Did you know that although this is citrus season, grapefruits have not yet celebrated their 300th birthday? They are considered one part mystery and one part accident. Most likely a cross between a pomelo and a sweet orange. Grapefruit’s name comes from the positioning of the fruit itself on the tree, in clusters that some say look like bunches of grapes. Vitamin C, fiber, potassium, iron, and calcium can all be found in fresh grapefruit.
The clean peel was sliced and set aside to dry for three days. Depending on the thickness of the pith, it might take 4 days. Just keep checking until it is dried out.
Keeping the peel out of the oven and letting it sit the extra time to dry out ensures the natural oils stay in the finished powder. Place the dried peel into a blender and pulse until a powder forms.
Once there was grapefruit peel powder, the options began to grow. Firstly, grapefruit powder can be used in food. I popped about a teaspoon into the batter of these Citrus Surprise muffins. Other options include jams and marmalade, dessert recipes, even marinades and some sauces.
Idea number two Grapefruit Scouring Powder!
You will need:
1 part grapefruit peel powder
1 part sea salt
1.5 parts baking soda
Sprinkle the mixture lightly over the sink and scrub. The grapefruit aroma will be released as you work and the sink will gleam. Try the mixture on countertops and bathtubs as well.
Having succeeded with my first thought and since spring cleaning was on the to do list, next try was cookie sheets.
It worked! To be honest though, I believe there was a secret ingredient in getting the sheets their sparkle back and that would be elbow grease.
As mentioned above using the powder in soap making was my original thought. It can be substituted for anything calling for dried lemon or orange peel. Combine one to one with a fat rich yoghurt and use as a face mask and consider adding it to a salt or sugar scrub.
Just make sure to label the bottle and store in a cool dark location. Experiment and enjoy!
