The Lemon

Description/Taste

Lemons are heavily utilized as a flavoring agent in various forms. The fruit is ovate with pointed ends. Its peel is semi-thick, porous, and laden with essential oils. The bright yellow thin outer layer of the peel is very edible and used for multiple applications. When the peel is removed or zested it releases intense sweet citrus aromas. The flesh is translucent yellow and juicy when ripe. Its juice is highly acidic and tart, though extremely versatile in its uses. Depending on the variety, lemons may contain no seeds or numerous seeds.

Seasons/Availability

Lemons are available year-round.

Current Facts

The true lemon, Citrus limon is known as Limone, limón, limón agria, limón real, or limón francés. It is a member of the family, Rutaceae. The most common commercial lemon varieties are either Lisbon or the Eureka lemon, of which hybrids of the Eureka lemon are even more common as they are improved versions of the original. Most other true lemon varieties are grown in gardens or for limited production on a local market scale.

Applications

Lemons are versatile and can be added to a wide variety of dishes across almost every cuisine. Add juice or zest to soups, dips, mayonnaise, and whipped cream. Cook whole lemon slices into marmalade or cook with eggs and butter into curd. Pack lemon slices in salt to preserve. Flavor cakes, bread, or scones. Make scented sugar by rubbing the lemon zest into sugard granules. Juice fresh lemons and combine with sugar and water to make lemonade, add to cocktails or freeze into a granita. Mix with oil for a vinaigrette. Fresh lemons will keep at room temperature or refrigerated for 1-2 weeks.