Dried Orange Peel (Chen Pi) | (100g)

Chen Pi, or dried orange peel, has been a familiar presence in Chinese kitchens for centuries. It’s simply the skin of the orange, but once dried and aged, it takes on a very different personality. Instead of just sharp citrus, you get warmth, spice, and a little bitterness. The result is something that can lift a broth, give depth to sauces, or turn an ordinary cup of hot water into a fragrant, soothing tea. This 100g pack is just the right size if you’d like to keep some on hand without filling the cupboard.

Why Cooks Still Use Dried Orange Peel (Chen Pi)

There’s a reason Chen Pi hasn’t gone out of fashion. In traditional cooking it was often linked with digestion, added to meals that felt heavy or rich to help balance them out. Families also prized the aroma — not just the taste in food but the way it seemed to clear the head. The longer the peel is aged, the more complex and aromatic it becomes, which is why old Chen Pi is treated almost like a fine ingredient in its own right.

These days, people outside of Asia are waking up to its uses too. It’s cropping up in recipes shared online, in teas sold by herbal shops, and even in baking. Alongside ginger, cinnamon, or star anise, it takes its place as one of the more versatile Chinese culinary herbs you can keep in your kitchen.

How to Use Chen Pi in Everyday Cooking

Chen Pi is at home in soups — a small piece simmered with chicken or vegetables adds a layer of flavour you wouldn’t expect from dried peel. In sauces or marinades, it cuts through richness and gives a subtle tang. Bakers also use it: ground and mixed into cake or biscuit batter, it lends a rustic, old-fashioned citrus note that’s deeper than fresh zest.

For tea, just drop a slice into hot water, or combine it with other herbs for a warming infusion. Some people also grind it into a powder for spice blends, and in older traditions, even use it in simple skincare mixes.

Vita Herbal Nutrition – Why Our Chen Pi Stands Out

We don’t use sulphur to treat our herbs, so the peel you get is clean and natural. All of our Chen Pi comes from DaoDi regions, places known for producing authentic citrus peel. Since 2010, we’ve worked with trusted farmers to make sure what arrives in your bag has been dried and stored properly, keeping its aroma and flavour intact.

Why 100g Makes Sense

If you’re new to Chen Pi, this is the sensible size. Enough to try in teas, soups, or baking, but not so much that it sits unused. It’s also easy to store — a little goes a long way, so 100g will see you through quite a few recipes.

FAQs

What is Dried Orange Peel (Chen Pi)?
It’s the dried skin of the orange, aged and used in Chinese cooking for both flavour and tradition.

Why is aged orange peel considered more potent?
Over time, the peel’s aromatic properties intensify, making it a popular ingredient in traditional blends.

Can dried orange peel be used in cooking?
Certainly, it can be added to sweet and savoury dishes, bringing natural citrus flavour and warmth to recipes.

What does it taste like?
Less sweet than fresh zest — think citrus with a touch of spice and bitterness.

How does dried orange peel support digestion?
Its warming and slightly bitter qualities are traditionally believed to provide some assistance in potentially maintaining digestive balance.

Is dried orange peel naturally aromatic?
Yes, it has a strong citrus scent, making it a popular choice for infusions, teas, and aromatic blends.

Can dried orange peel be used in skincare?
In some traditions, orange peel is used in preparations that may support natural skin radiance.

Why buy the 100g pack?
It’s ideal for first-time buyers or anyone who only needs a modest amount for cooking or tea.