In the United Arab Emirates, household food waste remains a significant challenge in our journey toward sustainability.
According to the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, the average UAE resident generates approximately 197 kg of food waste per year.
The most wasted items in UAE households include bread (36%), vegetables (34%), and fruits (31%), all of which could easily be repurposed into new meals with a little creativity.
In response to this issue, the UAE government has taken steps to reduce food waste. Initiatives such as the UAE Food Bank encourage individuals and businesses to donate surplus food to those in need. Additionally, the National Food Waste Pledge aims to cut food waste by 50% by 2030, in line with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Residents are encouraged to plan meals carefully, store food properly, and repurpose leftovers to minimise waste.
To support this effort, Goumbook has asked Chef Kunwal from Moreish by K. to provide easy, delicious recipes that help households make the most of their ingredients.
Here are three ways to turn food scraps into gourmet dishes, helping you reduce waste and enjoy fresh, flavourful meals.
Recipe 1: Bread Stuffing for Poultry or a Crispy Topping
Stale bread can still have a second life! This versatile bread stuffing works perfectly for stuffing poultry or as a crispy topping for casseroles, baked dishes or salads.
Ingredients:
- Stale bread loaf (not mouldy)
- Medium chopped white onion
- Province or mixed herb seasoning
- Rosemary sprig, chopped (optional)
- 1-2 cups of broth
- Sea salt and pepper
Method:
- In a bowl, tear the bread and add enough broth to moisten – it should be mouldable
- Add all other ingredients and mix together
- Set aside for 10 minutes
- Use this stuffing to fill a chicken or turkey or fry it in butter for a crispy topping on vegetables, mac & cheese, or lasagna before baking.
Pro Tip: If you don’t have broth, use water and a dash of olive oil to achieve the desired texture.
Recipe 2: Crispy Vegetable Peel Chips
Vegetable peels often end up in the bin, yet they’re packed with nutrients and fibre and can be transformed into a crispy and healthy snack. Whether you’re peeling carrots, potatoes, or beetroots, this recipe gives those peels a second life as a delicious treat.
Ingredients:
- Vegetable peels (carrots, parsnips, beetroot, potatoes)
- Olive oil
- Sea salt
- Paprika, Lemon Pepper, or Cajun Spice Mix
- Optional: grated parmesan or shredded vegan cheese
Method:
- Add the vegetable peels to a mixing bowl.
- Toss with olive oil, salt, and your preferred seasoning.
- Spread the peels on a baking tray and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 15 minutes, until slightly golden.
- For the last 5 minutes, sprinkle on grated cheese, if desired.
- Enjoy these as a snack or sprinkle them on top of salads for a crunchy texture.
Pro Tip: You can mix and match different peel types for varied flavours or keep them separate for distinctive tastes.
Recipe 3: Citrus Peel Candies
Instead of tossing out citrus peels, turn them into sweet and zesty candy. This easy recipe works with grapefruit, lemon, lime, or orange peels to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups citrus peels (cut into ¼-inch pieces)
- 5 cups monk fruit sugar
- Pinch of pink pepper
- 1 cup water
Method:
- Place the citrus peels in a pot and submerge in water.
- Bring to a boil. Boil for 15-18 minutes, then drain and let the peels rest on a kitchen towel.
- In a separate saucepan, combine the monk fruit sugar and water. Bring to a boil until the temperature reaches 108°C.
- Add the boiled citrus peels to the sugar mixture and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and transfer the peels to a cold surface.
- Dust with monk fruit sugar and ground pink pepper for an extra punch of flavour.
Pro Tip: These candies make for a perfect garnish on desserts or can be enjoyed on their own as a tangy snack.
By incorporating these recipes into your kitchen routine, you can contribute to reducing food waste while creating delicious dishes and snacks. Remember, small changes in our cooking habits can lead to significant positive impacts on both our environment and our wallets. For more tips on a sustainable lifestyle, follow Goumbook on LinkedIn and Instagram