Lemon Zest Paste Recipe
Ingredients:
- 100g (1 cup) fresh lemon zest (~5-6 large lemons)
- 15ml (1 tbsp) olive oil
- 50g (1/4 cup) granulated sugar
- 2g (1/2 tsp) salt
Introduction
Welcome to our delightful exploration into the world of Lemon Zest Paste! This versatile and vibrant ingredient captures the essence of Lemon in a form that can be stored and used at your convenience. Whether you want to brighten up your desserts, give a tangy twist to your savory dishes, or even experiment with cocktails, this paste offers boundless culinary opportunities. Join us as we delve into creating Lemon Zest Paste that promises to be a kitchen staple.
Kitchen Equipment Required:
- Microplane or fine grater
- Small mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Airtight Container or Jar
- Sharp Knife
- Cutting Board
Cooking Time
Total estimated time: 15 minutes
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Lemons
Start by thoroughly washing the lemons under cold water. Using a sharp knife or microplane, finely grate the zest from your lemons. Avoid the white pith as it can add a bitter taste.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a small mixing bowl, add the grated lemon zest, olive oil, granulated sugar, and salt. Stir the mixture until it becomes a coarse paste. The sugar and salt help to draw out moisture and amplify the lemon flavor, while the olive oil aids in binding the zest to maintain a smooth consistency.
Step 3: Store and Preserve
Transfer your lemon zest paste into an airtight container or jar. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For a longer shelf life, consider freezing the paste in small portions. Use a spoon or knife to segment the paste into single-use portions in an ice cube tray. Once frozen, you can transfer these zest cubes to a freezer-safe bag.
Step 4: Application Ideas
Your Lemon Zest Paste is now ready to be used! Add a spoonful to your cake batter, sprinkle over grilled fish, whip it into a salad dressing, or even infuse it into sugar syrups for cocktails and beverages. Its tangy essence will complement both sweet and savory dishes beautifully.
Conclusion
Congratulations on creating a delightful Lemon Zest Paste that is both simple and versatile! By dedicating a few short minutes, you’ve captured the zesty brightness of lemons in a paste that extends far beyond traditional zesting. Whether incorporated into a grand recipe or used for a quick flavor boost, this paste promises to elevate any dish with its citrusy charisma. Enjoy experimenting and let your culinary creativity shine!
