Lemon pepper

Lemon Pepper

Homemade lemon pepper seasoning

Lemon pepper is a seasoning made from granulated lemon zest and cracked black peppercorns. The lemon zest is mashed with the pepper to allow the citrus oil to infuse into the pepper. This mixture is then baked and dried, creating a flavorful spice blend that is commonly used in culinary applications.

Preparation

Lemon pepper is typically prepared by combining dried lemon zest with freshly cracked black pepper. The zest is often obtained by grating the outer peel of a lemon, ensuring that the bitter white pith is avoided. The zest is then mixed with the pepper and sometimes additional ingredients such as salt, garlic powder, or onion powder to enhance the flavor profile.

Homemade Lemon Pepper

To make homemade lemon pepper, fresh lemons are zested, and the zest is mixed with cracked black pepper. The mixture is spread out on a baking sheet and dried in a low-temperature oven or dehydrator. Once dried, the lemon pepper can be stored in an airtight container for later use.

Culinary Uses

Lemon pepper is a versatile seasoning that can be used in a variety of dishes. It is commonly used to season chicken, fish, and vegetables. The bright citrus flavor of the lemon zest complements the heat of the black pepper, making it a popular choice for marinades, rubs, and dressings.

Lemon Pepper Chicken

Lemon pepper chicken served with vegetables

Lemon pepper chicken is a popular dish where chicken breasts or thighs are seasoned with lemon pepper and then baked, grilled, or pan-fried. The seasoning adds a zesty and spicy flavor to the chicken, making it a favorite in many households.

Other Dishes

In addition to chicken, lemon pepper can be used to season seafood, such as salmon or shrimp. It is also a popular choice for seasoning pasta dishes, salads, and soups.

Related Pages

• Lemon
• Black pepper
• Seasoning
• Spice