Lemons are known for their beauty and health benefits, as well as their ability to stimulate digestion. However, lemons can be quite sour, making it difficult for some people to consume them directly. Lemon water is a great solution to this problem. But should you remove the peel when making lemon water?
Do not remove the peel when making lemon water
Some people choose to remove the peel before making lemon water because it can impart a bitter taste. However, it is not necessary to remove the peel when making lemon water. Instead, make sure to thoroughly wash the lemon and then slice it, removing the seeds. You can add a small amount of honey or sugar to mask the sourness and bitterness of the lemon.
Benefits of not removing the peel when making lemon water
When making lemon water, it is important to leave the peel on. Lemon peels contain high levels of flavonoids and essential oils, which are responsible for the lemon's aroma. By not removing the peel and thinly slicing the lemon, you can enhance the release of the lemon's fragrance. The combination of the subtle bitterness and acidity from the flavonoids creates a refreshing and thirst-quenching effect.
How to clean lemons
1. Flour cleaning: Prepare a basin of hot water at 40-50 degrees Celsius and add two spoonfuls of flour. Soak the lemons in the hot water for 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can use hot rice water. The hot water helps dissolve the wax on the lemon peel, while the alkaline flour neutralizes any acidic residues on the peel.
2. Salt scrub: Take two tablespoons of salt in your palm and rub the lemon, which has been soaked in water to create foam. The fine particles of salt help remove any remaining wax and enhance the release of aromatic compounds from the peel, resulting in a better-tasting lemon water.
Things to consider when making lemon water
Slice the lemon into thin slices of 2-3mm and add them to water according to the size of your glass. You can add honey, sugar, salt, or other ingredients according to your preference. Generally, 1-2 slices of lemon are enough to infuse 500 milliliters of water. It is advisable to make the lemon water less concentrated, as high concentrations can irritate the stomach lining. However, diluted lemon water can help repair the stomach lining. You can use one lemon for about three rounds of infusion. For the third infusion, it is recommended to remove the lemon pulp. It is best to consume a lemon within two days. Any leftover lemon can be used for making face masks or foot soaks.
