Don’t throw away potato peels – use them and save money!

You’re absolutely right! Potato peels are a surprisingly versatile resource, and throwing them away is a waste. Here are some great ways to use them and save money:

1. Crispy Potato Peel Chips:

• How:
  • Wash the peels thoroughly.
  • Toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite spices (paprika, garlic powder, etc.).
  • Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
  • Bake at 400°F (200°C) until crispy and golden brown.
• Benefits: Delicious snack, reduces food waste.

2. Vegetable Broth:

• How:
  • Add potato peels (along with other vegetable scraps like onion peels, carrot ends, etc.) to a pot of water.
  • Simmer for 30-60 minutes.
  • Strain the broth and use it for soups, stews, or sauces.
• Benefits: Homemade broth is cheaper and healthier than store-bought.

3. Soil Amendment:

• How:
  • Compost potato peels.
  • The decomposed peels add nutrients and organic matter to the soil.
• Benefits: Improves soil fertility, reduces waste.
• Caution: Don’t compost peels from diseased potatoes.

4. Natural Cleaner:

• How:
  • Boil potato peels in water.
  • The starchy water can be used to clean stainless steel surfaces and remove tarnish.
• Benefits: Eco-friendly cleaner, saves money on commercial products.

5. Face Mask (for some):

• How:
  • Some people use the inside of potato peels as a natural face mask.
  • They believe it can help brighten skin and reduce dark circles.
• Benefits: Natural skincare option.
• Caution: Test on a small area of skin first, as some people may be sensitive.

6. Add to Animal Feed (if applicable):

• How:
  • If you have chickens or other livestock, potato peels can be a nutritious addition to their feed.
• Benefits: Reduces feed costs.
• Caution: Ensure the peels are clean and free of pesticides.

7. Potato Peel Powder (thickener):

• How:
  • Dry the peels thoroughly.
  • Grind the dried peels into a powder.
  • This powder can be used as a thickener for soups and sauces.
• Benefits: Reduces food waste, and creates a natural thickener.

General Tips:

• Always wash potato peels thoroughly before use.
• Use peels from organic potatoes whenever possible to minimize pesticide exposure.
• Avoid using peels from green potatoes, as they may contain solanine, a toxic compound.

By using potato peels creatively, you can save money, reduce waste, and discover some surprising benefits!