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How to Use Yuzu- A Versatile Citrus Fruit becoming more popular in NZ

How to Use Yuzu- A Versatile Citrus Fruit becoming more popular in NZ

May 22, 2025

Yuzu is a Japanese citrus fruit, roughly the size of a golf ball, with a bumpy yellow rind. Its flavor is complex—bright, tart, and aromatic—with floral and citrus notes.

Yuzu is treasured in East Asian cuisines, especially Japanese and Korean. It is a versatile citrus fruit and can be used in any sweet or savory dish where lemon is usually used.

Yuzus are a relatively new fruit in NZ, not being easy to purchase. The good news is you can buy a Citrus Direct Yuzu tree and look forward to fruit around 2 years after planting. If you are new to Yuzu, here are some ways you can use this lovely fruit.

Non-food Uses of Yuzu

Yuzu can be used in place of lemons or limes in the non-food products. These products are found within the 'How to Guides" section. When it comes to food and drink, most recipes that call for lemon or lime can be substituted with Yuzu for a delightful and refreshing alternative.

      Food Uses of Yuzu

      Here are some delicious ideas for using yuzu:

      1. Yuzu Kosho: A spicy condiment made from yuzu zest, chili peppers, and salt, often used in Japanese cuisine.
      2. Soups and Broths: Yuzu adds brightness to ramen, miso, hot pots, and clear soups.
      3. Seafood: Its citrus flavor complements sashimi, grilled fish, and shellfish. See Yuzu Miso Galzed Salmon and Yuzu Miso salmon with Soba noodle salad.
      4. Yuzu Dressing, Marinade or Sauce: Mix yuzu juice with a selection of: soy sauce, sesame oil, mirin, fresh or dried chillies, bonito flakes (katsuobushi), rice wine vinegar, white wine vinegar, fresh herbs, mustard, wasabi, and a touch of sugar or honey for a refreshing salad dressing, dipping sauce or marinade. What you add will dispend on the flavour or cuisine you are wanting to emulate. Ponzu is a famous yuzu based sauce. Yuzu Shoyu Sauce is a mix of yuzu juice, soy sauce and mirin. It is used for dipping or drizzling.
      5. Yuzu-Infused Salt or Sugar: Blend yuzu zest with sea salt or sugar to create fragrant finishing touches for various dishes.
      6. Yuzu Zest: Grated yuzu peel can be used to adds aroma and flavor to meals, desserts, salads, and seasoning blends. Zest can also be used for garnishing and decoration of dishes.
      7. Yuzu in Baking, Desserts and Sweets: Incorporate yuzu zest or juice into cakes, cookies, and other baked goods for a citrus aroma. Yuzu juice is lovely n mousses, sorbets, or panna cotta. Yuzu pairs beautifully with white chocolate or vanilla. Yuzu can be used in candies, sherbets, and other confections.
      8. Drinks: Yuzu can be infused into teas, cocktails, mocktails and sparkling waters. Yuzu tea is a combination of yuzu juice, hot water and honey. This drink tastes lovely and is ideal if you have a sore throat or cold.

      Photo Above: Yuzu Tea- refreshing, soothing. We should of added a slice of ginger. That would have made it even nicer.

      Storage Tips:

      • Yuzu juice and zest can be frozen or stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for weeks.
      • Yuzu fruits are seasonal, typically available in winter, but yuzu products like juice and paste are often available year-round.