Lemon peel is a versatile ingredient with many culinary and household applications. Here's a breakdown of different ways to use it:
Culinary Uses
Lemon peel offers a vibrant citrus flavor and aroma that can elevate various dishes and drinks.
Candied Lemon Peel
Transform lemon peels into a sweet treat. Candied lemon peel can be enjoyed on its own or used to decorate cakes and pastries. It involves boiling the peels multiple times in sugar syrup until they become translucent and soft.
Lemon Pepper
Make your own zesty seasoning by combining dried lemon zest with black peppercorns. This lemon pepper mix is excellent for seasoning pasta, poultry, seafood, and vegetables.
Lemon Marmalade
Use lemon peels to create a homemade marmalade with a unique citrusy tang. The peels contribute bitterness and texture to the marmalade.
Gremolata
Gremolata is a flavorful Italian condiment typically made with lemon zest, parsley, and garlic. It adds a bright and herbaceous touch to grilled meats, fish, and stews.
Martini With a Twist
Add a twist of lemon peel to your martini for a classic garnish and a burst of citrus aroma. Express the oils from the peel over the drink before dropping it in.
Lemon Sugar
Infuse granulated sugar with the fragrant oils of lemon peel. Store lemon peels in a jar with sugar. This flavored sugar can be used in baking, to sweeten beverages, or as a topping for desserts.
Lemon Extract
Infuse vodka with lemon peels to create a homemade lemon extract. This extract can be used to add lemon flavor to baked goods, sauces, and desserts.
Garnish Water or Tea
Add a strip of lemon peel to your water or tea for a refreshing citrus flavor.
Household Uses
Beyond the kitchen, lemon peel can be used for cleaning and deodorizing.
Cleaning Agent
Lemon peels can be used to clean microwaves. Place lemon peels in a microwave-safe bowl with water and microwave for several minutes. The steam will loosen grime and the lemon will deodorize the interior.
Garbage Disposal Refresher
Toss lemon peels into your garbage disposal to freshen it and remove odors. The citrus oils will help break down grease and leave a pleasant scent.
Natural Deodorizer
Place lemon peels in areas where you want to eliminate odors, such as the refrigerator or pantry.
How to Prepare Lemon Peel
- Wash: Thoroughly wash the lemons before peeling to remove any dirt or pesticides.
- Peel: Use a vegetable peeler, zester, or paring knife to remove the outer layer of the lemon peel, avoiding the bitter white pith as much as possible. For some applications, such as making marmalade, you might want to include some of the pith.
- Dry (optional): If you're making lemon pepper or lemon sugar, dry the lemon peel before using it. You can air-dry it, dehydrate it, or bake it at a low temperature.
By exploring these diverse applications, you can make the most of lemon peels and reduce waste.
