Definition

The bitter white layer between citrus peel and flesh that chefs spend their lives trying to avoid. Nature's reminder that not everything about lemons is supposed to be pleasant.

Example Usage

You got pith in the lemon curd again—did you zest it with a cheese grater?

Origin

Old English 'pitha,' originally meaning the essential part or core of something (ironic, since we mostly try to remove it)

Fun Fact

Despite its terrible reputation in cooking, citrus pith is actually loaded with vitamin C and flavonoids, making it nutritionally valuable even if it tastes like regret.

Source: General culinary and citrus processing terminology

Related Terms

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Advanced

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