Homemade Lemon Powder

Homemade Lemon Powder

Introduction

Lemon powder is a vibrant, tangy seasoning made from dehydrated lemon peel or whole lemons. It’s a versatile kitchen ingredient, perfect for adding a burst of citrus flavor to baked goods, marinades, teas, salad dressings, or even cleaning solutions. This recipe walks you through how to make lemon powder from scratch and store it for long-lasting freshness.

Ingredients

• Fresh lemons – 5 to 10 (organic if possible, since we’re using the peel)
• Optional: A pinch of salt or sugar (for flavor balance depending on intended use)

Equipment Needed

• Vegetable peeler or sharp knife
• Baking sheet or dehydrator trays
• Oven or dehydrator
• Blender, spice grinder, or food processor
• Airtight glass jar for storage

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Lemons

1. Wash lemons thoroughly under warm water to remove dirt and any wax.
2. Dry them with a clean towel.
3. Using a vegetable peeler, carefully remove the peel, avoiding too much of the bitter white pith.

Step 2: Dry the Lemon Peels

Option 1 – Using an Oven:

1. Preheat oven to 50–60°C (120–140°F).
2. Place lemon peels in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Dry in the oven for 2–3 hours, flipping halfway through, until completely crisp.

Option 2 – Using a Dehydrator:

1. Arrange peels on dehydrator trays.
2. Dry at 50°C (122°F) for 8–10 hours

Step 3: Grind into Powder

1. Once peels are fully dried, place them in a spice grinder or blender.
2. Pulse until a fine powder forms.
3. Sift if needed to remove larger bits.

Step 4: Store

• Transfer the powder to an airtight glass jar.
• Keep in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.
• Properly stored, lemon powder can last up to 12 months.

Methods of Use

• Sprinkle over grilled fish, chicken, or vegetables.
• Mix into baked goods like cakes, muffins, or cookies.
• Add to salad dressings, marinades, and sauces.
• Stir into tea or cocktails for a citrus kick.
• Combine with baking soda for natural cleaning.

Benefits

• Rich in Vitamin C – boosts immunity.
• Natural flavor enhancer – no artificial additives.
• Long shelf life – unlike fresh lemons, no risk of spoiling quickly.
• Zero waste – makes full use of lemon peels.

Nutrition (per teaspoon)

• Calories: ~5 kcal
• Carbs: ~1.3 g
• Vitamin C: ~8–10% of daily needs
• Fat: 0 g
• Protein: 0 g

Conclusion

Lemon powder is a simple yet powerful ingredient to keep in your pantry. Whether you want to season savory dishes, sweeten desserts, or freshen up your cleaning routine, it’s a natural and healthy alternative to store-bought flavorings.