How to avoid bitter citrus extract: zest without the white pith
When zesting citrus for extract, remove only the colored zest and avoid the white pith to prevent bitterness.
Peel citrus zest in thin strips, focusing on the outer colored layer. Avoid taking any of the white layer underneath, because it can make the extract bitter.
The short version
- Use thin strips of zest
- Avoid the white pith to prevent bitterness
What goes wrong
Including the white pith when zesting
Take only the colored zest layer; leave the white behind.
Why it works
The white pith contains bitter compounds that can leach into the alcohol during infusion.
Put it to use
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