Lemon Pearls

Bright lemon pearls with a citrusy zing that cuts through richness and enlivens seafood, desserts, and more.

Ingredients

  • ½ cup (125mL) fresh lemon juice
  • ½ cup (125mL) cold water
  • 1 tbsp (12g) sugar
  • ½ tsp (2g) sodium alginate
  • 1 tsp (4.5g) calcium chloride
  • 2 cups (500mL) ice-cold water (for bath)

Instructions

  1. Juice & Mix
    • Juice lemons and combine with cold water and sugar. Stir until dissolved.
  2. Add Alginate
    • Blend mixture and slowly add sodium alginate while blending on low. Continue blending 1 minute.
  3. Rest
    • Let sit 30–45 minutes to remove bubbles.
  4. Strain
    • Pass through fine mesh sieve into The Spherificator®.
  5. Prepare Bath
    • Dissolve calcium chloride in 500mL ice-cold water.
  6. Form Pearls
    • Drip mixture from 5 inches height into bath. Cure for 45 seconds.
  7. Finish
    • Rinse quickly and chill. Use within 12 hours for freshest taste.

Expert Tips

Flavor Enhancements
  • Herbal: Infuse with basil or mint before blending.
  • Sweet-tart: Add 1 tsp orange juice for softer edge.
Color Control
  • Bright yellow: Add ¼ tsp turmeric or natural food dye.
  • Pale look: Use Meyer lemons for smoother tone.
Troubleshooting
  • If bitter: Strain juice well and avoid zest.
  • If too sour: Add more sugar or dilute with water.
Serving Ideas
  • Seafood: Use on oysters, scallops, or ceviche.
  • Desserts: Top lemon tarts, panna cotta, or yogurt.
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