Yuzu paste

How to Use Yuzu Paste in Cooking?

Yuzu paste can be used as a marinade for fish or meats, added to sauces, or mixed into dressings for a refined touch of acidity. It also perfectly complements desserts, offering a tangy and fragrant note that enhances pastries and ice creams.

Recipe Ideas for Using Yuzu Paste

• - Yuzu Marinated Salmon: Use yuzu paste to marinate salmon fillets before grilling or pan-frying for a fresh and tangy flavor;
• - Yuzu Vinaigrette: Incorporate yuzu paste into a vinaigrette for an exotic and fragrant salad;
• - Sashimi Sauce: Mix yuzu paste with soy sauce to accompany sashimi, adding a tangy and aromatic touch;
• - Refined Desserts: Use yuzu paste in pastry recipes like madeleines, lemon tarts, or macarons for a unique aromatic note;
• - Fragrant Rice: Add a touch of yuzu paste to your rice for a delightfully fragrant side dish;
• - Vegetable Stir-Fry: Incorporate yuzu paste into your sautéed vegetables for a tangy and vibrant note.

The Aromas of Yuzu Paste

Derived from the yuzu fruit, a Japanese citrus, this paste exudes vibrant and complex aromas combining notes of lemon, mandarin, and grapefruit. Its scent is both lively and floral, with a hint of acidity that evokes the freshness and purity of citrus fruits. On the palate, yuzu paste reveals a tangy and slightly sweet flavor, enriched by a slight bitterness that perfectly balances its powerful aromas.

The Botany of Yuzu

Yuzu, Citrus junos, is a citrus fruit native to East Asia, particularly prized in Japan, Korea, and China. It is known for its cold resistance and ability to grow in various climatic conditions. The fruit, about the size of a mandarin, is valued for its juice and aromatic zest.

Yuzu: A Japanese Tradition

In Japan, yuzu is much more than just a citrus fruit. It is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and traditions. During the winter solstice, it is customary to take a yuzu bath, where whole fruits float in hot water. This ritual, called "yuzuyu," is believed to bring luck and health for the coming year. In cooking, yuzu is celebrated for its exceptional aromatic qualities, making each dish a unique sensory experience.