How do you wash citrus peel before using it in cooking or baking?

Question

Learn how to properly wash citrus peel before you zest it. Ensure your recipes are safe and flavorful with this essential prep technique.

Answer 1

Wash citrus peel thoroughly under cool running water, scrubbing with a clean brush or your fingers to remove any dirt, wax, or pesticide residue. Pat dry before using.

Detailed Explanation:

Citrus fruits are often treated with wax to prolong their shelf life and may also have pesticide residue on their peels. Therefore, it's crucial to wash them thoroughly before using the peel in cooking or baking. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Rinse: Begin by rinsing the citrus fruit under cool running water. This helps to remove loose dirt and debris.

2. Scrub: Use a clean vegetable brush or your fingers to scrub the peel. Pay close attention to any crevices or uneven surfaces. A gentle scrubbing action is sufficient to remove most surface contaminants.

3. Optional Soak: For extra cleaning, you can soak the citrus fruit in a solution of water and vinegar (1 tablespoon of white vinegar per cup of water) for about 15-20 minutes before scrubbing. This can help to remove wax and pesticide residue more effectively.

4. Final Rinse: After scrubbing (and soaking, if you choose), rinse the citrus fruit again under cool running water to remove any remaining dirt or cleaning solution.

5. Dry: Pat the citrus fruit dry with a clean towel before peeling or zesting. This will make it easier to handle and prevent water from diluting the flavor of your recipe.

Pro Tip:

If you're concerned about wax buildup, blanching the citrus fruit in boiling water for a few seconds before scrubbing can help to melt and remove the wax more effectively. Be careful not to overcook the fruit, as this can affect the flavor and texture of the peel.