Orange zest

Orange zest refers to the colored and aromatic outer layer that covers the orange fruit. It is a widely used ingredient in cooking to provide an intense citrus aroma and a slightly bitter, refreshing flavor to various preparations, from desserts and pastries to savory dishes and beverages.

The origin of orange zest is tied to the orange itself, the fruit of the orange tree (Citrus sinensis), a tree native to Southeast Asia but which has been extensively cultivated in Mediterranean regions, Latin America, and other temperate zones around the world.

The properties of orange zest include a high content of essential oils, mainly limonene, which give it its characteristic aroma and flavor. Furthermore, it contains dietary fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, which provide health benefits such as improved digestion and anti-inflammatory action.

In the culinary context of Latin America, orange zest may also be found under other names depending on the region, such as “orange peel”, “orange rind”, or simply “zest”. The latter, although more generic, is commonly used when referring to the outer part of the fruit used in recipes.