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When it comes to cooking, there’s a transformative power in using the entire vegetable. Instead of discarding less desirable parts, why not get creative and utilize everything? The next time you chop up asparagus, broccoli, or any other vegetable, take a moment to consider this guide. Cooking from root to stalk reduces waste and enhances your meals with unique flavors and textures.
1. Apple Peels and Cores
Don’t throw away those apple peels and cores! They can add incredible depth to homemade apple cider or even infuse bourbon cocktails with a delightful flavor. Another great idea is to simmer apple scraps in water with spices like cinnamon and cloves, creating a warm, aromatic apple-infused syrup or tea that’s perfect for cozy evenings.
2. Asparagus Stems
Instead of tossing the tough ends of asparagus, clean and chop them up. They’re fantastic for making a fresh soup or a rich vegetable stock. You can also sauté them with garlic and olive oil for a nutritious and tasty side dish that complements any meal.
3. Broccoli Stalks
Broccoli stalks are often overlooked, but they’re packed with nutrients! Simply clean them, remove the tough outer layer, and chop the tender inner part into small pieces. These can be juiced or blended into smoothies, paired with sweeter veggies like carrots or fruits such as apples for a refreshing, healthy drink.
4. Carrot Tops
Those carrot tops can be more than just garnish! Chop them up and use them instead of parsley in salads or pestos. Remember that they can have a slightly bitter flavor, so mixing them with milder herbs can create a delightful balance in your dishes.
5. Cauliflower Stems and Leaves
When buying a cauliflower head, consider cutting it in half and roasting the halves as “steaks.” The stems and leaves can also be chopped up and sautéed with spices, adding a unique twist to stir-fries or grain bowls. This way, you get to enjoy the whole vegetable without any waste.
6. Celery Leaves and Inner Stalks
Don’t discard the celery leaves! They can add a fresh, vibrant touch to your salads, while the inner stalks are perfect for enhancing the base of soups and stews. They pack a punch of flavor that can elevate your dishes effortlessly.
7. Fennel Stalks
If you’re a fan of licorice, fennel stalks can be a fun ingredient to experiment with. You can juice them, toss them into salads, or roast them for a sweet and savory side dish. The fronds can also be a flavorful herb to garnish your meals.
8. Lemon and Orange Skins/Peels
Before you juice your citrus, don’t forget to zest those peels! The zest adds a bright flavor to baked goods, fruit salads, and even rice dishes. You can also candy citrus peels for a sweet treat or use them to infuse oils for dressings.
9. Potato Peels
Think twice before peeling your potatoes! Those peels are delicious when fried until crispy, making for a fantastic snack. You can also bake them with a sprinkle of salt and herbs for an easy, flavorful side dish.
10. Radish Leaves
Radish leaves are often tossed aside but can be a great addition to your meals. Use them in soups, and salads, or even blend them into a vibrant pesto. They’re also a fantastic way to boost the nutritional value of your morning juice.
Celebrate Whole Vegetables!
Discarding parts of your vegetables is a missed opportunity! By embracing the idea of utilizing every part, you reduce waste and enjoy a wider range of flavors and textures in your cooking. The next time you’re in the kitchen, remember that there’s so much more to your vegetables than meets the eye. So go ahead, get creative, and start cooking whole!
Learn How to Cook Plant-Based Meals at Home
Reducing your meat intake and eating more plant-based foods is known to help with chronic inflammation, heart health, mental well-being, fitness goals, nutritional needs, allergies, gut health, and more! Dairy consumption also has been linked to many health problems, including acne, hormonal imbalance, cancer, and prostate cancer, and has many side effects.
For those of you interested in eating more plant-based we highly recommend downloading the Food Monster App — with over 20,000 delicious recipes it is the largest plant-based recipe resource to help reduce your environmental footprint, save animals, and get healthy! And, while you are at it, we encourage you to also learn about the environmental and health benefits of a plant-based diet.
Here are some great resources to get you started:
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