Do you need to peel citrus before juicing?

It depends on the citrus fruit and the juicer you're using.

Here's a breakdown:

Peeling is usually NOT necessary for:

* Manual juicers: These juicers are designed to extract juice from the whole fruit, including the peel.

* Citrus presses: These juicers also work well with the whole fruit.

Peeling IS recommended for:

* Electric juicers: These juicers are typically meant for softer fruits and vegetables. The peel can clog the machine and make the juice bitter.

* If you want to remove the pith: The white part of the peel, called pith, can be bitter and affect the taste of the juice. If you prefer a sweeter juice, you should peel the citrus and remove the pith.

Here are some specific tips:

* Lemons and Limes: You can usually juice these whole with a manual juicer or a citrus press. If using an electric juicer, it's best to peel them.

* Oranges: You can juice oranges whole with a manual juicer or a citrus press. If you want a smoother juice, you can remove the peel and pith before juicing.

* Grapefruits: These are best peeled before juicing, especially if using an electric juicer. The peel can be tough and bitter.

General advice:

* Always wash the fruit thoroughly before juicing.

* If you're unsure, it's always better to peel the citrus. This will ensure that you get a smooth and flavorful juice.

* If you're using a manual juicer, you can use a fork to help you extract more juice.

Enjoy your fresh citrus juice! 🍊🍋