Mainly grown in East Asia Yuzu is a small citrus fruit with a distinctive aroma and flavor that falls somewhere between a lemon and an orange. The use of Yuzu zest and juice is quite common in Japanese cuisine.
Health benefits of Yuzu
- Rich in Vitamin C
- Supports Digestive health
- Powerful Antioxidant
- Skin health support
- Stress Relief and Aromatherapy
Rich in Vitamin C
Vitamin C helps boost the immune system and helps our body in the absorption of iron from plant-based foods.
Antioxidant Properties
Yuzu is also abundant with free radical neutralizing antioxidants, flavonoids and phenolic compounds. These play a role in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
Digestive Health: The essential oils found in yuzu, such as limonene, are known to have mild laxative effects and can help alleviate digestive issues.
Aromatherapy and Stress Reduction: The aromatic compounds in yuzu, especially its essential oil, are believed to have aromatherapeutic properties. The citrusy scent is often associated with stress reduction and relaxation.
Skin Health: Rich in vitamin C Yuzu is said to aid skin health by promoting collagen growth, which is essential for maintaining skin elasticity and preventing early signs of aging.
Recipe
Yuzu (or any citrus of your choice) 3
Sugar 30% of the weight of your Yuzu
Granulated sugar (for coating)
- Quarter your yuzu and save the flesh for jam. Discard the seeds. **
- Soak the yuzu peels overnight to remove any bitterness.
- Remove the pith with a spoon. This should come off very easily.
- Cover the peels with water and bring them to a boil.
After coming to a boil, strain your peels and refill your pot with fresh water.
We will repeat this step twice.
- Weigh your peels and add thirty percent of the weight of your peels in sugar to a pot with your peels under medium heat.
- Continue to stir your peels as the water evaporates and a syrup begins to form.
- After all the water has evaporated you will notice your peels becoming very shiny and glass-like, this is when they are done.
- Cut your peels into desired sized strips and let dry naturally overnight or in the oven at about 100 degrees Celsius (212F) for about 20 mins.
- Coat with sugar and store in an airtight container for two weeks.
**If you are interested in an all-natural skin lotion, the seeds can also be used to make one; let me know if you want the recipe.