Homemade Adams Lemon Pepper Recipe: Fresh & Customizable

Category: Seasoning Blend

Introduction

Adams Lemon Pepper is a beloved seasoning blend that has been a staple in many kitchens for decades. Its distinctive tangy, peppery flavor with a citrus twist has made it a favorite for enhancing dishes like chicken, fish, and vegetables. The original product, known for its vibrant flavor, has a loyal following, but making it at home allows for healthier ingredients, cost-effectiveness, and the ability to tailor the flavor to your taste. This homemade version uses natural ingredients, avoiding preservatives and artificial flavorings, making it a healthier alternative. Plus, it's customizable, so you can adjust the levels of lemon, pepper, or heat to your liking.

Why Make It at Home?

Making Adams Lemon Pepper at home offers several advantages. It's healthier, as you can use fresh lemon zest instead of artificial additives. It's cost-effective, as you can buy spices in bulk. Most importantly, it's customizable—adjust the pepper for more heat or add more lemon for a brighter flavor.

Personal Anecdote

I remember the first time I used Adams Lemon Pepper on chicken for a family dinner. The citrus and pepper flavors were a hit, but I wanted to avoid the preservatives. So, I decided to create my own version using fresh lemons and spices, which turned out even better than expected!

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:10 minutes
• **Cook Time:0 minutes
• **Total Time:10 minutes
• **Yield:1/2 cup (enough for 4-6 servings)

Ingredients

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (60g) black pepper, freshly ground
• 2 tablespoons (30g) garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons (30g) onion powder
• 1 tablespoon (15g) paprika
• 1 tablespoon (15g) salt (or to taste)
• 1 teaspoon (5g) cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Citrus Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons (30g) lemon zest (freshly grated, optional but recommended)
• 2 tablespoons (30g) citric acid (optional, for tanginess)
• 2 tablespoons (30g) lemon peel powder (or 1 tablespoon lemon zest)

Instructions

• Grind the Pepper: Grind black peppercorns in a spice grinder until coarsely ground for optimal flavor.
• Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine ground pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using).
• Add Citrus: Incorporate lemon zest or lemon peel powder into the dry mix until well combined.
• Sift: Sift the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to ensure even distribution.
• Store: Transfer to an airtight container for freshness.

Storage Instructions

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 months. For longer shelf life, refrigerate.

Variations

• Spicy Version: Increase cayenne pepper to 1.5 teaspoons.
• Low-Sodium Version: Use half the salt or a salt-free alternative.
• Smoky Version: Substitute smoked paprika for a BBQ flavor.

Special Equipment

• Spice grinder or mortar and pestle for grinding pepper.
• Fine-mesh sieve for sifting.

Pro Tips

• Freshness Matters: Use freshly ground pepper for the best flavor.
• Even Distribution: Sift the mixture to ensure all spices are evenly distributed.
• Lemon Zest: Incorporate freshly grated zest for authentic citrus flavor.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use bottled lemon juice? No, as it adds moisture. Use zest or citric acid instead.
• How long does it last? Up to 6 months at room temperature.
• Can I make it salt-free? Yes, omit or reduce salt as needed.
• Can I scale the recipe? Double or triple ingredients as needed.
• Can I use dried lemon peel? Yes, but freshly grated zest is preferable.

Serving Suggestions

• Chicken & Fish: Rub on chicken breasts or fish before baking or grilling.
• Vegetables: Sprinkle on roasted or steamed vegetables for a zesty twist.
• Popcorn: Add a pinch for a flavorful snack.
• Dip: Mix with sour cream or yogurt for a tasty dip.

Conclusion

This homemade Adams Lemon Pepper offers a fresher, healthier alternative with customizable flavors. With no preservatives and natural ingredients, it's a great addition to any meal. Try it and enjoy the vibrant flavors while knowing exactly what's in your seasoning!