Yuki Tanaka
Lemon extract is an aromatic cooking extract, which is made from the essential oil got from fresh lemons. Lemon extracts are used in several places, such as in cakes, bread, and in any other recipe where lemon extracts are needed. Using lemon extracts is very easy as all you have to do is add them to anything you choose. You can choose to add it to your cookies, beverages, and even cakes. You can find this ingredient in your local store; if you do not find it there, you can buy it in bulk from Amazon.
Lemon Extract Benefit
Lemon extracts are very useful in the kitchen. This is because the extract is gotten from lemon, which is the main source of antioxidant vitamin C. antioxidants are useful in the body because they help in preventing free radicals from causing damage to the cell, which can, in turn, cause cancer.
1. Lemon Zest
Lemon zest is the perfect substitute for lemon extract. Lemon zest is the yellow part of a lemon peel. The oil from which the extracts are made is found in the lemon zest. Making zest is very easy. All you have to do is to wash the lemon fruit, then rub it across a greater. Only grate the yellow part because that is what you need. Two tablespoons of lemon zest are used in making one tablespoon of the lemon extract.
2. Lemongrass Oil
This type of oil is extracted from different types of lemongrass which are grown all over the world. The lemongrass oil is extracted from the dried leaves, through a process known as steam distillation. This oil is used to dilute other oils, making it the best replacement for lemon extract.
3. Other flavorings
If you do not mind so much about the flavor of your final product, you can consider using another flavoring such as orange or vanilla extracts. You can incorporate either orange or vanilla flavor to your ingredient and get an amazing taste.
4. Rosewater
This is another substitute for a lemon extract that works just perfectly. Use it in your sweet or savory dish and ensure that it matches and fits well with the rest of your recipe. Rosewater is good for baking all your favorite dishes around the house. If you want to achieve a subtle flavor that is lingering, rosewater is your best option. It is not overpowering and strong like other ingredients and is commonly used in sweets such as rice puddings. Moreover, it can also be used in making savory lamb stews as well.
5. Lemon Oil
Other people also prefer using lemon oil to the lemon extract. In addition to that, lemon oil tends to have a higher concentration of flavor as compared to the lemon extracts. This produces a variety of strengths between products. Start by substituting the oil to the extract in the ration of 1/8 for every teaspoon of lemon extract. If the flavor is not what you desire, keep adding the oil in drops until you achieve the desired flavor.
Summary
If you are not a fan of using the lemon extract in your baking, you can use a variety of other substitutes that offer even more flavor to your foods. For instance, using lemon oil in place for lemon extract gives the desired taste as it has a higher flavor concentration as compared to the extract.
Summary Table
| Substitute | Flavor Profile | Texture | Best Used In | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lemon Zest | Bright, Citrusy | Zest | Baking, Cooking | Fresh Lemon Peel |
| Lemongrass Oil | Citrusy, Herbal | Liquid | Asian Dishes, Curries | Essential Oil |
| Other Flavorings | Varies | Varies | Varies | Varies |
| Rosewater | Floral, Sweet | Liquid | Desserts, Pastries | Extract |
| Lemon Oil | Citrusy, Tangy | Liquid | Baking, Cooking | Essential Oil |
FAQs
What is a substitute for 1 teaspoon of lemon extract?
You can substitute 1 teaspoon of lemon extract with 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of lemon zest or 2 to 3 teaspoons of lemon juice. Remember that the flavor may vary slightly depending on the substitution you choose.
Can I replace lemon juice with lemon extract?
Lemon juice and lemon extract are not directly interchangeable. Lemon juice provides flavor and acidity to recipes, while lemon extract is concentrated flavor with less acidity. If you substitute one for the other, your dish’s taste and acidity levels might be affected.
Is lemon extract the same as lemon juice?
No, lemon extract and lemon juice are not the same. Lemon extract is a concentrated flavoring made from lemon zest and alcohol, while lemon juice is the natural juice extracted from lemon fruit.
How much lemon extract equals 1 tablespoon of lemon zest?
Approximately 1 teaspoon of lemon extract can be used as a substitute for 1 tablespoon of lemon zest. However, flavor intensity might be slightly different, so adjust to taste.
