Orange zest (from fresh orange)

Description

Orange zest, or fresh zest, has an intense, fresh citrus aroma with a hint of sweetness and subtle bitterness; the outer layer is shiny, orange, and rich in essential oils, while the white part (albedo) is bitter and should be avoided. It contains concentrated oils (mainly limonene), vitamin C, fiber, and polyphenols with antioxidant properties, which support immunity, digestion, and may alleviate inflammation with moderate consumption. In the kitchen, zest is suitable for baking, creams, marinades, sauces, dressings, beverages, and cocktails, as well as savory dishes like fish or salads; it also works well as a base for jams and candied peels. For storage, it is best to wrap freshly grated zest and keep it in the refrigerator for a maximum of a few days; it can be frozen in an airtight container or dried for longer storage, and before use, the white layer should be removed to avoid excessive bitterness.