Lemons

The Romans believed that eating a lemon is the antidote for all poisons. Known by the 16th century to be a cure for scurvy, Portuguese sailors would stop and plant lemon and orange seeds on distant shores during their sea voyages. Many people have used the lemon for centuries to help relieve colds, sore throats, asthma, rheumatism, upset stomachs, sweeten breath and whiten teeth. It was used by the women of Louis XIV's court to redden their lips.

Lemons are a member of the citrus family (citrus limon) and is an oval or oblong-shaped bright yellow fruit ranging in size from 2 to 3 inches (5 to 8 cm) with a bulge at the blossom end. The lemon consists of a yellow outer rind (skin) that contains the fruit's oils and perfumes. This outer rind, of varying thickness and graininess, can have either a bumpy or a smooth glossy texture that contains most of the lemon's wonderful tangy flavor. The rind (zest) is removed using a knife, vegetable peeler, grater or zester depending on its use. The zest is used in desserts for its flavor as well as for garnishing. Inside the outer rind is a white membrane (pith) that is very bitter and it is inedible. Small vessels called 'pulp vesicles' make up the inside of the lemon and contain the pleasantly acidic lemon juice and seeds. Squeezing the lemon by hand or with a lemon squeezer or reamer releases the clear tart juice used in both sweet and savory dishes. Lemon acidity has a variety of uses: it acts as a flavor enhancer; sprinkled over cut raw fruit (apples, pears, peaches, bananas, etc.) prevents browning; added to boiling water it can brighten the color of broccoli, green beans or cauliflower; removes berry stains and garlic odors, mixed with a little salt it makes an ideal cleaner of copper; and it contains potassium and vitamin C.

When choosing lemons, look for ones that are fragrant with brightly colored oily yellow skin. They should be firm, plump, and heavy for their size. Avoid lemons that have blemishes, soft spots, green spots, or are hard and wrinkled. If removing the outer rind (zest) make sure you wash the lemon thoroughly (soap and water is best), as some commercially sold lemons are sprayed with insecticide. If possible, buy organic lemons when using the outer rind. Some are sprayed with a color dye and an edible wax to slow the loss of moisture. Lemons can be stored at room temperature up to a week or in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for several weeks.