What is the process called when you zest a citrus fruit?

The process of zesting a citrus fruit involves grating or scraping off the very outer layer of the fruit's skin, which contains essential oils that provide a concentrated burst of flavor and aroma. This outer layer, known as the zest, is not only vibrant in color but also rich in the fruit's aromatic compounds. Zesting is commonly used in cooking and baking to enhance the flavor of dishes and is preferred over juicing for when a recipe calls for the distinctive citrus flavor without the acidity.

Peeling the whole fruit generally means removing the entire skin, which would not capture the flavorful oils located in the zest. Juicing focuses on extracting the liquid from the fruit, leaving behind the zest, while boiling the fruit alters its texture and can diminish the fresh flavors, which is not related to zesting at all. Thus, grating the outer skin to release oils and flavor accurately captures the essence and purpose of zesting.