Zesting an Orange

Orange zest is the upper layer of the orange's peel. It consists of the fruit's oils, and gives flavor to various dishes. There are quite a few kitchen utensils you can use to zest an orange, include a grater, vegetable peeler, knife or microplane.

Below are the tips to make fresh orange zest.

• The smaller and more finely grated the zest, the more the orange taste will penetrate into your recipes. 
• Wash the orange carefully before zesting. Employ soap and water to take away pesticides, waxes and dyes. 
• Zesting with a grater will offer you a zest that is a little coarser than a microplane. 
• If sealed in a plastic bag, orange zest can be keep in the freezer for up to six months. 
• Using a microplane will give you a very fine zest. 
• Using a vegetable peeler or knife will leave you with bigger strips of zest. You can make use of this type of zest in drinks. You may also chop it to get a finer zest.