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Simmered Citrus and Cinnamon Potpourri

This recipe involves gently simmering fresh orange peels and whole cinnamon sticks in water on the stovetop. The resulting aromatic mixture creates a fragrant, simmered infusion with bright citrus notes and warm spice, producing a clear, fragrant liquid that fills the air with a cozy, uplifting aroma.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: comfort
Calories: 15
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large oranges for zesting and peels
  • 3 sticks cinnamon whole sticks
  • 4 cups water

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Lemon zester or peeler

Method
 

  1. Use a zester or peeler to remove the zest from the oranges, taking care to avoid the bitter white pith underneath.
  2. Cut the oranges into halves and peel away strips of the outer peel, placing them into the saucepan.
  3. Add the whole cinnamon sticks to the saucepan along with the orange peels and zest.
  4. Pour in the water, covering the citrus peels and cinnamon thoroughly, then set the saucepan over medium heat.
  5. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the aroma of citrus and spice to start wafting through your kitchen.
  6. Reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer, and let it cook uncovered for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally and watching the liquid develop a deep, fragrant scent.
  7. Turn off the heat and carefully remove the cinnamon sticks and citrus peels, or leave them in for a more intense aroma as desired.
  8. Pour the fragrant liquid into a bowl or small pitcher, and serve it warm, allowing the warm, citrusy fragrance to fill your space.

Notes

For a stronger scent, leave the citrus peels and cinnamon sticks in the water during serving or gently reheat as needed. You can also add additional aromatics like cloves or vanilla to customize the aroma.