Yuzu, a fragrant citrus fruit originating from East Asia, has become a darling of chefs worldwide. With its distinctive flavour—a complex blend of lemon, lime, and grapefruit—yuzu adds a sophisticated twist to both sweet and savoury dishes. Let's explore how to enjoy this culinary gem.

What is Yuzu?

Yuzu is a citrus fruit about the size of a tangerine, with a bumpy, yellow skin when ripe. It's prized for its intense, aromatic oil and juice rather than its flesh, which can be quite bitter and seedy.

How to Select Yuzu

When selecting yuzu:

1. Look for fruits that are yellow or yellow-green in colour.

2. Choose fruits that feel heavy for their size, indicating juiciness.

3. Avoid fruits with soft spots or blemishes.

Preparing Yuzu

Unlike other citrus fruits, yuzu is rarely eaten fresh due to its tartness and seeds. Here's how to prepare it:

1. Wash the fruit thoroughly under cool water.

2. Zest the skin using a fine grater or microplane.

3. Cut the fruit in half and juice it, straining out the seeds.

Culinary Uses of Yuzu

Chefs love yuzu for its versatility. Here are some ways to use it:

1. Yuzu Zest: Add to desserts, marinades, or use as a garnish.

2. Yuzu Juice:

   • Use in dressings, sauces, or cocktails.

   • Add to seafood dishes for a bright, citrusy note.

   • Mix with honey for a soothing tea.

3. Yuzu Kosho: A spicy Japanese condiment made with yuzu peel, chilli peppers, and salt.

4. Yuzu Vinaigrette: Combine yuzu juice with olive oil, honey, and a pinch of salt for a refreshing salad dressing.

5. Yuzu Desserts: Use in mousses, sorbets, or as a flavouring for cakes and pastries.

Chef's Favourite Yuzu Recipes

1. Yuzu-Marinated Salmon

   • Mix yuzu juice, soy sauce, and mirin. Marinate salmon fillets for 30 minutes before grilling.

2. Yuzu Aioli

   • Blend mayonnaise with yuzu juice and zest. Perfect for seafood or as a dipping sauce.

3. Yuzu Posset

   • Heat cream and sugar, add yuzu juice, and chill for a simple, elegant dessert.

Nutritional Benefits

Yuzu is not just flavourful, it's also nutritious:

• Rich in Vitamin C

• Contains antioxidants

• Low in calories

Storing Yuzu

• Fresh yuzu can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

• Yuzu juice and zest can be frozen for longer storage.

Where to Find Yuzu

Yuzu can be challenging to find fresh outside of Japan, but you might locate it in:

• Asian supermarkets

• Speciality produce shops

• Online gourmet food retailers ( special order at The Epicerie)

If fresh yuzu is unavailable, bottled yuzu juice is a good alternative and is more widely available.

Why Chefs Love Yuzu

Chefs adore yuzu for several reasons:

1. Unique Flavour Profile: Its complex taste adds depth to dishes.

2. Versatility: Works well in both sweet and savoury applications.

3. Aroma: The intense fragrance can elevate a dish's sensory experience.

4. Novelty: It adds an exotic touch to familiar recipes.

Remember, a little yuzu goes a long way. Its potent flavour means you only need a small amount to make a big impact in your cooking.

Whether you're a professional chef or a home cook looking to experiment, yuzu offers a world of culinary possibilities. Its unique flavour can transform ordinary dishes into extraordinary culinary experiences.

So why not give this chef's favourite a try in your next culinary creation?

From The Epicerie with love.