How to measure zest?

[Amerylla]

I'm wondering about measuring zest, in this case lemon but I'm certain that matters not. Is it packed like brown sugar or is it fluffy like flour?

 

[rjx]

I measure it like herbs. I make sure there is not any empty space, but I don't push it hard and pack it in. A soft push is ok.

 

[Andy M.]

I tend to press it into the measuring spoon a little. For most recipes, a little more of a citrus flavor is not a bad thing.

 

[GB]

Zest is one of those things where measuring really does not have to be all that accurate. I always just eyeball it. A little over or under will not hurt anything.

 

[Big Shot]

I just grate it right into the the dish and say "eh, that looks about right"

 

[Amerylla]

Heh, thanks all. I'm becoming bold and zesty! =)

 

[Jeekinz]

IIRC, one lemon has 1 tablespoon of zest.

Someone correct me if I'm wrong.

 

[GB]

IIRC, one lemon has 1 tablespoon of zest.

Someone correct me if I'm wrong.

There is really no way to be sure of that. Some lemons are very small and others are very large. They will each have a different amount of zest.

 

[Jeekinz]

Zest is one of those things where measuring really does not have to be all that accurate. I always just eyeball it. A little over or under will not hurt anything.

There is really no way to be sure of that. Some lemons are very small and others are very large. They will each have a different amount of zest.

Yeah....it's a "guideline".

If you need 4 tablespoons of zest, you can get away with 4 lemons.

 

[GB]

I would think as a guideline that is probably close enough, yeah.