How To Zest A Lemon
Here is how to zest a lemon using 3 different tools. This also includes washing and dewaxing your lemon.
Equipment
- 1 Citrus zester (Substitute with Microplane or Box Grater)
- 1 Bowl
- 1 Cutting board
Ingredients & Supplies
- 1 Medium Lemon
Instructions
Clean Your Lemon
- Wash your lemon under running water to remove any dirt or debris. Use a vegetable brush to give it a good scrub.
- Give a final rinse and pat dry.
Remove Wax From Lemon
- If your lemon has a wax coating, place in a colander, carefully pour boiling water over it slowly for 10 seconds.
- Use a silicone glove or mitt to rotate the lemon to the other side and repeat.
- Give a final rinse with cool water and pat dry.
Zesting With Grater or Microplane
- Hold your grating tool securely with one hand against your cutting board. If using a microplane, you may hold it in the air if you are strong enough.
- Move the lemon across the grates with the other hand with short quick strokes.
- Check and rotate the lemon to avoid grating the pith.
Zest With Citrus Zester
- Hold your lemon in one hand and zester in the other.
- Use the zester to scratch or peel the zest like when using a vegetable peeler.
- Collect lemon zest and add to a bowl.
Final Step
- Use immediately or store for later.
Notes
Storage: 2 to 3 days in the fridge or up to 6 months in the freezer.