Kuoriliemiä

Kuoriliemiä, in Finnish culinary vocabulary, refers to liquids or broths produced by simmering fruit or vegetable peels in water. The aim is to extract aroma and flavor from the peels while reducing kitchen waste. Peels most commonly used include citrus rinds (lemon, orange, grapefruit), apple or pear skins, and various root or tuber peels. The resulting liquid is usually clear or lightly tinted and may be prepared with sugar, spices, or herbs to suit the intended use.

The liquids have a flexible range of applications. Kuoriliemiä can function as flavoring for desserts, beverages, syrups, jellies, or sauces, and they can also serve as a light stock base for grains or soups. Citrus-based kuoriliemiä, in particular, tends to be aromatic due to essential oils in the peel and can be reduced to a syrup or used as a fragrant infusion. After straining, the solids are typically discarded or repurposed separately.

Preparation and storage are straightforward. Wash peels thoroughly to remove dirt and pesticides, and for citrus, removing the white pith can lessen bitterness. Simmer the peels in water for about 10–30 minutes, then strain. Let the liquid cool and refrigerate; kuoriliemiä usually keep for a few days in the fridge and can be frozen for longer storage. They are a practical way to capture flavor from kitchen scraps for later use.