Yuzu Juice
An intensely tangy-aromatic liquid obtained by squeezing yuzu, a citrus fruit native to East Asia with a taste between mandarin, lemon, and grapefruit. Used in Japanese sauces and drinks.
What Is Yuzu Juice?
Yuzu juice is an aromatic liquid obtained by squeezing the yuzu fruit, native to East Asia (originating in China, most cultivated in Japan). Yuzu is a citrus type with a complex taste between mandarin, lemon, and grapefruit.
The fruit itself has seeds and little juice content; that's why it is generally sold as bottled yuzu juice rather than fresh fruit. Its aroma is distinctly floral-citrusy, and its taste is a slightly softer-more complex sourness than lemon.
Nutritional Values of Yuzu Juice
100 grams of yuzu juice contains approximately 25 kcal of energy; like other citrus juices it carries a high level of vitamin C. Values vary by brand and are approximate.
How Should Yuzu Juice Be Consumed?
Yuzu juice is used as part of a balanced diet, in measured amounts as a sauce and beverage component.
This information is general; yuzu juice is a food and is not a substitute for medical treatment.
How to Choose Yuzu Juice?
A good yuzu juice is one with a light yellow-clear color, a distinctly floral-citrusy aroma, and one whose ingredients list states 100% yuzu juice. Products with artificial flavoring additives or heavily diluted ones should be avoided.
- Color should be light yellow-clear
- Aroma should be distinctly floral-citrusy
- Yuzu juice ratio should be high in the ingredients list
How to Store Yuzu Juice?
Yuzu juice is stored in a closed bottle in the refrigerator; once opened, it is recommended to be consumed within a reasonable time since its aroma may weaken over time.
Using Yuzu Juice in the Kitchen
Yuzu juice is most often used in ponzu sauce (mixed with soy sauce), salad dressing, sushi and fish marinades, and also in cocktail and dessert recipes.
Is Yuzu Peel Also Used?
Yes, and in some recipes it is even more valued than the juice; its finely grated peel is sprinkled over soups and cold mezes to add a distinct aroma.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can yuzu juice and lemon juice be used interchangeably?
Partly; it can provide a similar sourness but does not fully replicate yuzu's complex floral-mandarin note.
Is the yuzu fruit itself found in Turkey?
Fresh fruit is very rare; bottled yuzu juice can be found in gourmet markets and places selling Japanese products.
Why is yuzu juice expensive?
The fruit being imported, limited cultivation, and low juice yield raise its price compared to other citrus juices.