What Is Citric Acid in Lemons?
Citric acid: The main organic acid in lemons and limes, and the reason they taste sour. It is also sold as a white powder used to add sourness or keep cut fruit from browning.
In the kitchen
Lemon and lime juice are rich in citric acid, which is why they cut through rich foods, brighten sauces and curdle warm milk or cream. Oranges contain it too, but in lower amounts, so they taste sweeter.
Citric acid powder gives a tart edge without adding liquid, which helps in candy, sorbet and drink mixes. It is stronger than lemon juice by weight, so a small pinch goes a long way, and it lacks the aroma that comes from the zest and oils.
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