Ingredient Information

Citrus Zest

The zest of any citrus fruit is the outermost, colored layer of the rind. This is where all the essential oil is found and, as such, all the flavor. The white part between the colored zest and the pulp of the fruit is called pith and the strong bitter flavor can ruin your dish.

The utensil of choice for removing the zest from any citrus fruit is the microplane. This is a flat grater about 2 inches wide and 6 to 8 inches long with a handle. This grater has narrow serrations which are extremely sharp. The result is a light feathery zest with less chance that you will dig into the bitter pith.