zeste d'orange
The English phrase "orange peel" translates to French as zeste d'orange.
In a culinary context, zeste d'orange is the most common way to refer to the thin shavings of orange skin used to add flavor to food or drinks.
Meaning: the skin of an orange (noun)
Which one should you use?
While zeste d'orange refers to the thin, aromatic outer layer used for flavoring, écorce d'orange refers to the thicker, more substantial peel or rind.
Did you know?
- Using the word écorce to describe an orange might sound slightly dramatic to a French speaker, as it is the word most commonly used for the bark of a tree.
- In French, the word zeste is used almost exclusively in a culinary sense, whereas in English, 'zest' often refers to the energetic enthusiasm or spirit of a person.
- The word zeste actually derives from the Greek word for 'split' or 'rent', referring to the way one must slice or tear the skin to release the oils.
Examples in context
- La peau d'orange est rugueuse.The orange peel is rough.
- Ajoute un peu de zeste d'orange.Add a little bit of orange peel.
- Le zeste d'orange donne du goût.The orange peel adds flavor.
Example conversation
In a kitchen, Nathan and Emma are baking a cake together.
- NathanEmma, est-ce qu'on a besoin de zeste d'orange ?Emma, do we need orange peel?
- EmmaOui, Nathan, il en faut pour la recette.Yes, Nathan, we need some for the recipe.
- NathanJe vais râper le zeste d'orange alors.I will grate the orange peel then.
- EmmaC'est parfait, merci !That's perfect, thank you!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries zeste, CC BY-SA 4.0.
