Slupky

Slupky is the Czech term for the outer skins or peels of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. The word is used in everyday language, cooking, and food preparation. The singular form is slupka; the plural form is slupky. While the term covers a range of materials, it is most often applied to the peels left after peeling edible produce.

In cooking, slupky can be used in various ways. Citrus peels provide zest and essential oils, which flavor desserts and savory dishes. Potato, carrot, or zucchini skins can be roasted or added to stocks and soups for texture and nutrition. Some peels are eaten directly in certain cuisines (such as apple peels) while others are typically discarded. The palatability and safety of peels depend on the fruit or vegetable, coatings, and cleanliness; citrus peels may also carry wax residues that are usually washed off before use.

Nutritionally, peels often contain fiber, vitamins, and polyphenols, though their taste and texture vary. Some peels are bitter or tough, and certain fruits’ peels can harbor pesticides, so washing or choosing organically grown produce is common advice. Potatoes should not be consumed when green or sprouted, since green areas contain solanine.

In waste management, slupky represent a common source of organic waste and can be composted. They can also be used to flavor broths, candy citrus zest, or infuse oils and spirits, or dried for later use.

See also: peels, zest, skórka (Polish).