5 ways to use avocado peel in daily meal plans

When it comes to avocados, we always talk about the pulp and seeds and how innovative we can go with these two. But, have you ever thought about the peel? Often discarded as kitchen waste, it is actually a nutrient-rich byproduct worth a second look. The thick, leathery texture of dark green peel is said to have mild bitterness with earthy undertones, which is why it’s usually best suited for infusions rather than direct eating. The peel also contains natural oils and plant compounds that contribute to its subtle aroma when heated too. The compounds in the peel have been studied for their potential to help regulate cholesterol levels and support cardiovascular health. Scroll down to understand the goodness of peel and how it can be used in daily meal plans.

According to experts, due to its rich content of bioactive compounds, avocado peels are safe to eat and healthy too. Afterall, it is an important part of the fruit that protects it from ripening too fast. Unlike apple or mango, avocado skin is fibrous and thick. Also, it is quite bitter and unappetizing in taste. As per reports, like many other fruits, the outer skin of avocado is rich in vitamins, particularly antioxidants, phenols, and flavonoids. The darker the color, the higher the nutrient concentration. Also, while the pulp is creamy and nutritious, the peel actually has more dietary fiber. Fiber supports digestion, helps regulate blood sugar, and keeps you full longer.

One of the most interesting ways of using these peels is by converting them into stock. Clean the peels and simmer them along with onion, garlic, and other peels to create a light, earthy stock, which you can use for soups, dals, or gravies.

This one makes for a healthy morning tea. To make it you need to boil the cleaned peels with cinnamon, ginger, or lemongrass for a mild, antioxidant-rich drink that works well as a detox-style beverage. To enhance the taste, you may add a few drops of lemon and honey to it. One of the key advantages of avocado peel tea is its rich antioxidant content. The peel contains polyphenols and flavonoids that help fight oxidative stress, which is linked to ageing and various chronic conditions.

You can also dry and grind the peels into a fine powder, which can be added in tiny amounts to atta dough or cheela batter for extra fiber. One can also lightly roast the peels and use them as a base for flavored oils or broths at home. According to experts, avocado peel contains higher concentrations of polyphenols and flavonoids than the pulp. These antioxidants help fight oxidative stress, support cellular health, and may slow signs of ageing.

If you are a smoothie person, then you can add a small amount of peel into your fruit smoothie to add extra fiber and antioxidants. Make sure to wash and clean the peel before adding it to the blender. The peel is packed with compounds that can help soothe inflammation and protect the skin.

This might sound bizarre, but it makes for a very interesting and instagrammable serving bowl. All you need to do is turn sturdy avocado peel halves into eco-friendly bowls by drying them in the sun and use them to serve chutneys, dips, or small salad portions.

Images Courtesy: istock