Before you zest that lemon, learn how to wash it properly. Get the simple steps to clean citrus fruits for safe and flavorful results in your recipes.
1 Answer
Wash citrus fruits thoroughly under cool running water, scrubbing the skin with a clean brush or your hands to remove dirt, pesticides, and wax before zesting or juicing.
Detailed Explanation:
Citrus fruits, like lemons, limes, oranges, and grapefruits, are often treated with waxes and pesticides to prolong their shelf life and improve their appearance. These substances can be harmful if ingested, especially when zesting, as the zest comes directly from the outer layer of the fruit. Even when juicing, contaminants on the peel can transfer to the juice. Therefore, proper washing is crucial.Here's a step-by-step guide:1. **Rinse under cool water:** Begin by rinsing the citrus fruit under cool, running water. This helps to loosen any surface dirt or debris.2. **Scrub the skin:** Use a clean vegetable brush or your hands to scrub the skin of the fruit. Pay particular attention to any crevices or uneven surfaces where dirt might accumulate.3. **Consider using a mild soap (optional):** For extra cleaning, you can use a very mild dish soap. If you choose to use soap, ensure you rinse the fruit extremely well to remove all traces of the soap.4. **Dry thoroughly:** After washing, dry the fruit thoroughly with a clean towel. This helps to remove any remaining residue and makes it easier to zest or juice.
Pro Tip:
For organic citrus fruits, washing is still important to remove any dirt or debris accumulated during handling and transportation, even though they are not treated with synthetic pesticides.