Fragrant Orange and Clove Potpourri

This fragrant potpourri is a delightful blend of citrus, spices, and herbs. The oranges, lemon, and lime provide a bright and refreshing scent, while the cloves, cinnamon, ginger, and bay leaves add warmth and depth. The nutmeg adds a touch of sweetness and complexity. This potpourri is perfect for filling your home with a welcoming and inviting aroma.

Potpourri has been used for centuries to scent homes and other spaces. The earliest known potpourris were made from flowers and herbs, but over time, other ingredients such as spices, fruits, and even wood chips have been added to the mix. This particular recipe is inspired by the classic combination of citrus and spices, but with a few modern twists. The addition of ginger and bay leaves gives this potpourri a unique and sophisticated scent that is sure to please everyone who smells it.

Prep time: 10 | Cook time: 120 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 2 Oranges
• 1 Lemon
• 1 Lime
• 1/2 cup Dried Cloves
• 1/4 cup Whole Cinnamon Sticks
• 1/4 cup Dried Ginger Slices
• 1 tablespoon Dried Bay Leaves
• 1 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg

Instructions

1. Slice the oranges, lemon, and lime into thin rounds.
2. Place the citrus slices, cloves, cinnamon sticks, ginger slices, bay leaves, and nutmeg in a large bowl and mix well.
3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and bake at 200°F (93.3°C) for 2 hours, or until the citrus slices are completely dry and fragrant.
4. Allow the potpourri to cool completely.
5. Transfer the potpourri to a decorative bowl or jar and place it in your desired location.

Why It Works

• The combination of citrus, spices, and herbs creates a complex and inviting aroma.
• The citrus slices provide a bright and refreshing scent, while the cloves, cinnamon, ginger, and bay leaves add warmth and depth.
• The nutmeg adds a touch of sweetness and complexity.
• Baking the potpourri at a low temperature ensures that the citrus slices dry out completely without burning, which preserves their fragrance.