What To Do With Meyer Lemons?

Meyer Lemons are a hybrid citrus fruit that are a cross between a lemon and a mandarin orange. They are known for their sweeter and less acidic taste compared to regular lemons. They have a thin, smooth skin that ranges in color from orange-yellow to deep yellow, and they are generally smaller and rounder than traditional lemons. The flesh is also a deeper yellow color and has a sweeter taste.

Cooking with Meyer Lemons

A. Uses in Recipes

1. Baking: Meyer lemons can be used in a variety of baked goods such as cakes, cookies, and pastries. They can also be added to bread dough for a tangy twist.

2. Marmalades and Jams: The sweetness of Meyer lemons makes them perfect for making jams and marmalades.

3. Salad Dressings and Sauces: The juice and zest of Meyer lemons can be used to add a tangy flavor to salad dressings and sauces.

4. Meat and Fish Dishes: Meyer lemon juice can be used as a marinade for meat and fish dishes, or added as a finishing sauce.

B. Tips for Cooking with Meyer Lemons: – Use the zest as well as the juice to add a more intense lemon flavor. – When baking, use less sugar since Meyer lemons are sweeter than regular lemons. – When using the lemon juice in a recipe, taste the dish before adding more as to not make it too sour.

Preservation of Meyer Lemons

A. Canning: Meyer lemons can be canned by preserving them in syrup or in salt. This allows for a long shelf life and can be used in a variety of recipes.

B. Freezing: Meyer lemons can be frozen whole, juiced, or zested. When frozen, the lemons will last for up to a year.

C. Drying: Lemon zest can be dried in a low-heat oven or with a dehydrator, and can be stored in an airtight container for several months.

D. Infusing in Oil or Alcohol: Meyer lemon zest can be infused in oil or alcohol to create a flavored oil or liqueur. These infusions can last several months if stored in a cool, dark place.

Health Benefits of Meyer Lemons

A. Nutritional Information: Meyer lemons are a good source of Vitamin C, which is an antioxidant that helps boost the immune system. They also contain small amounts of Vitamin A, calcium, and potassium.

B. Medicinal Properties: The high Vitamin C content in Meyer lemons can help with the prevention of colds and flu, as well as reducing the severity of symptoms. The citric acid in Meyer lemons can also aid in digestion and help prevent kidney stones.

C. Possible Side Effects: Consuming large amounts of Meyer lemon juice can lead to heartburn, acid reflux, and tooth enamel erosion. It’s best to consume it in moderation and dilute with water if necessary.

Conclusion

Meyer lemons are a hybrid citrus fruit known for their sweeter and less acidic taste than regular lemons. They can be used in a variety of recipes, including baking, marmalades, salad dressings, and meat dishes. They also have health benefits such as being a good source of Vitamin C and can be used to aid in digestion and boost the immune system.

Meyer lemons can be a great addition to many dishes for a unique and delicious taste, but it’s important to use them in moderation to avoid any potential side effects. They can be used fresh, in preserves, or frozen for later use. Incorporating the zest and juice both to your cooking and baking can maximize the flavor.