Orange zest

Description

Orange zest is the thinly scraped, aromatic outer layer of the fruit with an intense citrus scent, a shiny orange color, and a slightly bitter, fresh taste resulting from essential oils. It contains few calories, a lot of fiber, vitamin C, flavonoids, and limonene oil, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and support digestion; however, it is advisable to choose organic fruits or wash the zest thoroughly due to pesticide residues. In the kitchen, zest is suitable for baked goods, desserts, dressings, marinades, fish and poultry dishes, and cocktails, where it enhances aroma without adding acidity. It is best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days or frozen in portions, and for longer use, dried and kept in a dry, cool place.