Citrus zest, the coloured part of the peel not the bitter white pith, is aromatic and full of flavour. It can be taken from the fruit in strips or grated, depending on recipe instructions. For the very fine strips of zest shown here, a tool called a zester is used. Scrub the fruit first, to remove any wax coating.
To cut strips of zest, pull zester towards you applying even pressure.
To grate zest, rub fruit over small cutters on grater. Use a brush to remove from grater.
© 1996 All rights reserved. Published by Le Cordon Bleu.