Everybody has squeezed a lemon for juice or a dish and then carelessly thrown away the rind. But these peels, which we assumed were useless, conceal a surprising culinary gem: handmade lemon powder. This easy, cost-effective, and distinctive approach will give your dishes and desserts a little extra zing. Are you prepared to find this fragrant treasure?
What is the purpose of using lemon powder in cooking?
Imagine an ingredient that complements your savory dishes and soft desserts, that comes in a little jar, and that smells like summer. That’s precisely what lemon powder provides. Made from dried and finely ground lemon zest, it adds a vibrant, fresh scent that works well in a variety of dishes.
Reusing the peels is also a great way to reduce food waste and make the most of every centimeter of our lemons, especially if they are grown organically.
How can I prepare my own powdered lemon?
This recipe is as easy as boiling water and doesn’t require any specialized cooking skills or expensive equipment. These are the actions to take.
Selecting the appropriate lemons
Choose organic or untreated lemons wherever possible. Their skin is free of chemical residues and has a deeper scent.
Get the zest ready.
After giving the lemons a good wash in cold water, pat them dry. Remove the skin with a vegetable peeler or a small knife, being careful not to cut off the bitter white component known as the zest.
Let the bark dry.
Depending on what you have available, you can choose from three methods:
- In the sun: For two to three days, spread the zest on a fresh cloth and place it in a bright area. To avoid humidity, bring them indoors at night.
- In cooking, it’s similar to a magic ingredient—just a pinch may turn a simple recipe into a delicious and aromatic meal.
- Sweet side: For a subtle yet sophisticated tangy touch, sprinkle it over your cakes, muffins, creams, or shortbread. A treat in a fruit tart or yogurt cake!
- Savory version: It complements roasted vegetables, risottos, marinades, and fish meals. When you add a little lemon powder and a sprinkle of olive oil, your veggies start to seem more Mediterranean.
- In your beverages: Add a pinch to a glass of fresh water or a homemade non-alcoholic cocktail for a refreshing touch, or infuse it into your herbal teas.
- To make your own vinaigrettes: It goes really well with a base of olive oil, honey, and mustard. Ideal for adding some flavor to a rather boring salad!
Lemon powder not only tastes great, but it also gives a sophisticated touch. You may believe it’s a chef’s ingredient, but it’s even better because you prepared it yourself!
