Seasonings Using Dried Mandarin Peels

In my last post I described how to make dried mandarin peels to use in baking and more. This post gives 4 different seasoning blends that shine with the inclusion of dried mandarin peels: it gives them a bright citrus burst that tastes good and is good for you.

Citrus Chinese Five-Spice 

Chinese Five-Spice is a classic Asian blend that mandarin really lifts. It is perfect for stir-fries and for marinades and rubs on chicken, pork, duck and even beef.

I give all the ingredients below but the simplest way is to buy Chinese Five-Spice Powder already made and add equal quantities of mandarin peels powder.

1 tbsp ground Sichuan peppercorns
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground cloves
1 tsp ground star anise
1 tsp ground fennel seed
2 tbsp dried mandarin peel powder

Citrus Furikake (Japanese Seasoning)

I gave lots of possible additions and variations for this classic Japanese seasoning in an earlier post on Seasonings with Seeds and Nuts. One of my favourite variations is to include dried mandarin peels.

24 parts White Sesame Seeds (toasted)
6 parts Mixed Seaweeds of choice
1/2 part salt
3 parts (or more) ground mandarin peel

Citrus & Herb Seasoning 

This seasoning has fast become a go-to for sprinkling on roasted vegetables. It is also great on roast chicken or anything you like really.

2 tbsp dried, crushed mandarin peel
2 tbsp dried rosemary
2 tbsp coarse sea salt
2 tsp black peppercorns
2 tsp garlic powder (optional)

Mandarin Chai Spice

This spice blend is wonderful to use as a breakfast sprinkle over your porridge, muesli, fruit and yoghurt. Cardamom is a great spice to help you digest dairy products – and it tastes wonderful with the mandarin. Try this blend on desserts, in baking or even in a drink.

4 tbsp dried mandarin peel powder
4 tsp ground cinnamon
2 tsp ground cardamom
1 tsp ground cloves
2 tsp ground ginger