Lemon is one of the most versatile and refreshing ingredients, rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, with a tangy aftertaste. However, extracting maximum juice and keeping lemons fresh during summer can be challenging. MasterChef Pankaj Bhadouria recently shared some smart hacks to make it easy.
Five Smart Lemon Hacks by MasterChef Pankaj Bhadouria
Hack 1: Choose Thin-Skinned Lemons
She advises buying lemons with thin skins rather than thick skins. Thin-skinned lemons are juicier than those with thick skin.
Hack 2: Store Lemons in Water
Lemons dry out quickly in the fridge. According to Chef Pankaj, the best way to keep them fresh and juicy for longer is to store them in water.
Hack 3: Microwave for 15 Seconds
When lemons become dry from prolonged refrigeration, microwaving them for 15 seconds before squeezing helps extract maximum juice.
Hack 4: Roll on a Flat Surface
If you do not have a microwave, Chef Pankaj suggests rolling lemons on a flat surface to get more juice.
Hack 5: Reuse Lemon Peels
Do not throw away lemon peels. Boil them with a little vinegar to create an excellent glass and surface cleaner.
Benefits of Lemon Juice
Per 100 ml, lemon juice contains 22 calories, 6.9 g carbs, 2.5 g sugars, 0.3 g fiber, 38-50 mg vitamin C, and 103 mg potassium. According to a study titled "Lemon juice antioxidant activity against oxidative stress" by Research Gate, fruit extracts rich in antioxidants like lemon juice effectively decrease intracellular ROS concentration and protect lipids, DNA, and mitochondrial functionality from free radical damage. Additionally, lemon juice boosts metabolism, burns fat, and reduces cravings when consumed with warm water. It also helps slow down sugar absorption, aiding diabetes management, and acts as a natural diuretic, flushing out toxins and keeping the body hydrated.
Culinary Uses of Lemon Juice
Lemon juice adds a tangy flavor to both sweet and savory dishes. It is used in lemonades, iced teas, citrus coolers, light salads, grilled seafood, and roasted vegetables. It also enhances summer desserts such as lemon tarts, sorbets, cheesecakes, and citrus-infused cakes.
Culinary Uses of Lemon Leaves
While lemon leaves are not commonly consumed directly, they can infuse flavor into teas, soups, and sauces. Incorporating them into herbal remedies and culinary preparations may offer lesser-known health benefits.
Benefits of Lemon Leaves
Lemon leaves contain antioxidants like flavonoids, phenolic acids, and vitamin C, which protect against oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer. They also aid digestion, soothe discomfort like bloating and gas, and have anti-inflammatory properties beneficial for conditions like arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease. The vitamin C content supports the immune system by enhancing white blood cell and antibody production. Additionally, consuming lemon leaves may have calming effects on the nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety, and their aroma soothes the mind and body.
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