Looking for a quick Substitute For Lemon Pepper? Whether you’re out of this zesty seasoning or just want to try something new, this simple blend is here to save the day.
Combining basic pantry ingredients, you’ll have a tangy and peppery mix ready in no time. Perfect for adding flavor to chicken, fish, or veggies!
Contents
11 Best Substitutes For Lemon Pepper
The substitutes offer various flavors, from pure citrus to exotic spices. The best choice will depend on the flavors you’re aiming for in your specific dish. Here’s a more detailed description of some of the best lemon pepper substitutes:
Lemon Thyme
Lemon thyme is a variety of the thyme plant with a distinct lemon aroma. It’s a great substitute for lemon pepper as the herb provides a citrusy tang and an earthy herbal note that complements many dishes, from roasts to soups.
Lemon Curry Powder
Lemon curry powder is a fusion of various spices such as turmeric, coriander, and cumin, all imbued with a subtle touch of lemon.
This fusion of flavors makes it a good replacement for homemade lemon pepper seasoning, especially in dishes that can benefit from a slightly exotic twist.
Green Peppercorns
There are various types of peppercorns, each imparting a unique spiciness. Black, white, and green peppercorns or a mix can bring pepper notes to your recipes when you’re out of lemon pepper.
Lemon Juice
Freshly squeezed lemon juice offers a strong citrus flavor that closely mimics the tanginess of lemon pepper. It works well in marinades, sauces, and dressings where the liquid form isn’t a hindrance.
This versatile ingredient makes an excellent substitute for lemon pepper, bringing a burst of freshness to your dishes.
Orange Peel
Roasted orange peel combined with other spices can replicate the citrus-spice balance of lemon pepper. Remove the bitter white pith before roasting the peels on a baking sheet. This can work particularly well in rubs and baked goods.
Shichimi Togarashi
It is also known as the Japanese seven-spice blend. This Japanese spice blend includes ground ginger, garlic pepper, poppy seed, and hemp seed.
Its complex flavor profile with a hint of citrus from dried orange peel adds an extra layer of zesty and peppery flavor that enhances the overall taste of savory dishes like roasted vegetables, noodles, soups, or grilled chicken. This seasoning can be the dish.
Lime Zest
Lime zest, similar to lemon zest, offers a citrusy tang but with a bit more tartness. It can be used as a direct substitute in any recipe for lemon pepper.
Lemon Verbena
Known for its robust lemon scent and flavor, lemon verbena can bring the citrus notes needed when substituting for lemon pepper. It can be used fresh or dried and is especially good in poultry and fish recipes.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is an herb with a sweet, lemony flavor. It can be used fresh or dried and complements fish, chicken, and salad dressings well, making it a suitable lemon pepper substitute.
Citrus Pepper
Citrus pepper is a blend of dried citrus peel and black pepper. It can be used as a one-to-one substitute for lemon pepper in any recipe, providing both the citrusy tang and the peppery kick.
FAQ’s
Is Lemon Pepper The Same As Lemon Zest?
Lemon pepper and lemon zest are not identical. Lemon zest refers to the vibrant outer skin of the lemon, frequently utilized in culinary creations for its zesty taste.
Fresh lemon zest delivers a potent lemony flavor that can replace the citrus element of lemon pepper. Whether using fresh or dried lemon zest, remember a little goes a long way due to its concentrated flavor.
Therefore, while you can substitute lemon pepper for lemon zest in some recipes, especially savory ones, it’s important to remember that it will also add a peppery flavor.
What Does Lemon Pepper Taste Like?
Lemon pepper is a popular spice blend with a vibrant, tangy flavor. It combines lemon’s fresh, citrusy taste with a sharp, spicy hint of black pepper.
The lemon flavor comes from dried lemon peel ground into the mix. This gives the blend a bright, zesty undertone.
The pepper, on the other hand, adds a nice kick, balancing out the tartness of the lemon. Its unique combination of flavors makes it versatile and well-loved in various culinary applications.
What Do You Do With Lemon Pepper?
Lemon Pepper Recipes: Lemon pepper blend is a key ingredient in many recipes. It’s a versatile spice blend in various dishes to add a tangy and spicy kick.
Roasted Veggies: One great way to use lemon pepper is on roasted veggies. The seasoning adds a zesty flavor that pairs well with the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables. Simply sprinkle lemon pepper over your veggies before roasting them in the oven.
Seafood Dishes: The seasoning adds flavor to seafood, making it a must-have for fish, shrimp, or scallop recipes.
Grilled Meat: Lemon pepper is often combined with dried herbs like rosemary and thyme. This blend can add a lemony taste to chicken, turkey, or pork before roasting or grilling.
How Long Can You Keep Lemon Pepper?
Lemon pepper seasoning can be stored for 3-6 months under proper conditions. However, it can be kept in the freezer for an extended period to maintain its freshness.
Store-bought lemon pepper may contain additional ingredients like salt, onion powder, and garlic powder.
The longevity of the seasoning can depend on these additional ingredients and the storage conditions.
Checking the expiration date if you’re using store-bought lemon pepper is always a good idea.
Substitutions For Lemon Pepper?
While it’s hard to replicate its exact flavor, there are several substitutes you can use in place of lemon pepper in your recipes. Try combining lemon thyme, black pepper, and other herbs for an earthy and herbal undertone.
If you’re looking for a citrusy zest, use lime or orange peel, juice, or zest. As an exciting alternative, you can also try exotic spice blends like shichimi togarashi or citrus pepper. No matter what substitute you choose, remember to adjust the amount used to get the desired flavor.
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