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Lemon Juice

Lemon juice is the acidic liquid extracted from the lemon fruit, which comes from the small evergreen Lemon tree (Citrus limon). The juice is frequently used for its sour, tangy flavor and multitude of culinary and non-culinary uses. Ranging from a fresh, natural flavor-enhancer to a natural cleaning agent, lemon juice is a valuable addition to many recipes and household applications. In the kitchen, lemon juice is an indispensable ingredient in many dishes, including marinades, dressings, sauces, and baked goods. It acts as a natural preservative, can tenderize meat, and prevent fruits from browning. Additionally, it offers a burst of vitamin C and other nutrients, making it a healthy addition to meals.
#7
IN JUICE
22
CAL / 100G
$0.13
AVG / OZ
lemon juice
92%
CARBS
3%
FAT
5%
PROTEIN
Lemon Juice FAQ
Lemon juice, while straightforward to use, has several nuances that can greatly enhance its effectiveness. As with any ingredient, getting it right takes practice and experience. A key misunderstanding is equating the flavor of bottled lemon juice with that of fresh lemon juice. While the former may be convenient, it lacks the vibrant flavor and nuances of fresh lemons. People often use too much lemon juice, overpowering the other flavors in a dish. It's also worth mentioning that the acidity levels can vary significantly between different varieties of lemons, so it's important to taste and adjust as you go. The simplest way to get the most out of lemon juice is to use it fresh. For the most juice, roll the lemon on a countertop under your hand before squeezing. If a recipe calls for both zest and juice, always zest the lemon first. People tend to underestimate the value of lemon zest. The zest contains the essential oils and gives dishes a citrus boost without the additional acidity. It's worth remembering that a little zest goes a long way. Regarding handy lemon juice hacks; freezing lemon juice into ice cubes allows you to keep fresh lemon juice on hand whenever you need it. A citrus press can help extract more juice, especially if you're dealing with larger quantities.
Can you substitute bottled lemon juice for fresh?
Can lemon juice be used to tenderize meat?
Should I add lemon juice at the beginning or end of cooking?
Does lemon juice need to be refrigerated after opening?
Can I substitute lime juice for lemon juice and vice versa?
Can lemon juice lighten hair?
Does lemon juice prevent fruit from turning brown?
Can lemon juice be used as a cleaning agent?
Are there any benefits of adding lemon juice to drinking water?
Is consuming too much lemon juice harmful?
Expiration & Storage Tips
When does lemon juice expire?
Unopened commercial bottles of lemon juice stored in a pantry typically stay fresh until the date printed on the bottle, usually around 12-18 months. Once opened, the juice should be refrigerated and consumed within 2 weeks for optimal freshness. If you've frozen lemon juice, it can last up to 4-6 months in a deep freezer. Homemade fresh lemon juice doesn't contain preservatives, so its shelf life is shorter, lasting refrigerated for only about 2-3 days.
How do you tell if lemon juice is bad?
Spoiled lemon juice will undergo changes in scent, color and umami or taste; it may develop a more intense, off-putting smell instead of its citrusy freshness. You might also see a color change to a darker, murkier yellow, and a change in taste as it turns more bitter. Mold development is a definitive sign of spoilage, especially in homemade juice.
Tips for storing lemon juice to extend shelf life
• To maximize the shelf life of lemon juice, store in a cool, dark place like the pantry before opening. • Once opened, refrigerate the juice to prevent the warmth and moisture of a kitchen counter from accelerating spoilage. • Opt for a squeeze bottle design for your store-bought lemon juice, as it limits oxygen exposure which can speed up spoilage. • Fresh-squeezed lemon juice can be stored in ice cube trays in the freezer for long term storage. The cubes are great for instant flavor addition in drinks and food recipes. • Avoid using containers with metal lids as the acidity of lemon juice can corrode them over time. Plastic or glass containers are preferable.
EXPIRES WITHIN
10 - 15
MONTHS
Health Info
Macros
1g
CARBS
0g
FAT
0g
PROTEIN
Allowed on these diets
LOW FAT
HIGH CALCIUM
VEGETARIAN
KETO
PALEO
WHOLE 30
MEDITERRANEAN
LOW CARB
VEGAN
LACTOSE FREE
GLUTEN FREE
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