An efficient way to zest key limes?
Due to my affinity for baked goods, I decided to try creating key lime pie filling from scratch. I've done so twice now using two recipes. The first of which calls for key lime zest as a primary ingredient. The second of which does not, though a recommended modification of the recipe, which I followed, does call for it.
Timing the process, it took me about 20-25 minutes to grate 3 tsp. of zest from my key limes using a planar grater/zester and a small ceramic bowl. I would like to significantly speed up this process if I can, but the size and texture of key limes makes them difficult to zest for more than a pinch at a time.
Is there a faster way? I was thinking of doing something crazy with my food processor or investing in a proper zester, though I'm not sure how much this would speed things along. There also seem to be rather expensive products like the Spin Zester out there, but they seem of dubious applicability to this problem.
Best Answer
It seems to me, that a quality planar grater is the best solution. The Spin Zester is way too expensive for a home kitchen. I can recommend this fine micro plane grater for zesting:
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Quick Answer about "An efficient way to zest key limes?"
First, cut the top off your lime to create a flat end, and place it flat-end down on a cutting board to keep it steady. Hold the lime in place with one hand, then take a sharp knife and slice off a length of peel. Turn the lime and repeat until all the zest is removed, and you have several large pieces of peel.How do you zest key limes?
Use a fine grater, with small holes. Hold grater at an angle, and press the lime across it until the colored part of the lime has come off. Don't get too much of the white portion of the peel because it is bitter. Continue turning and grating the lime until you have enough.Is there an easy way to zest limes?
How to Zest without a Zester. If you do not have a zester or fine grater, you can also use a peeler (both a y-peeler or a swivel peeler will work) and a knife for zesting limes and other citrus. You can also purchase a peeler that doubles as a zester.How to Properly Zest A Lemon \u0026 Other Citrus Fruit
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Answer 2
When I need larger amounts of zest, I peel the fruit with a knife as best I can, scrape off the white part, and then use a food processor or finely chop it. This is slower for small amounts, but much faster for large amounts.
Answer 3
I just began zesting key limes and I found a professional zester at Wal-Mart for $ 13.85! It took me about 5 key limes to begin to get the hang of it, but now I can do 80 key limes in about 45 minutes.
The best thing is to practice using no gloves. Be sure to keep the limes cool especially after zesting. This leaves the original lime without a peeling surface but still full of juice and ready to squeeze!
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