To juice a lemon in a Breville juicer, cut the lemon in half, place it cut-side down on the juicer’s cone, and activate the juicing function.
Juicing lemons in a Breville juicer unlocks vibrant citrus flavor for drinks, recipes, and health benefits. While simple, proper technique maximizes yield and minimizes bitterness. This guide covers everything from prep to cleanup for perfect lemon juice every time.
Preparing Lemons For Juicing
Proper preparation ensures efficient juicing and optimal flavor.
Washing And Cutting
Always wash lemons thoroughly under running water to remove dirt and pesticides. Dry completely before juicing. Cut lemons into quarters – this size fits perfectly in Breville’s feed chute while exposing maximum flesh.
Peeling Considerations
Whether to peel depends on your taste preferences:
- Unpeeled: Provides more juice volume and beneficial oils from the peel
- Peeled: Yields smoother, less bitter juice
For cocktails or delicate recipes, peeling is recommended. For health-focused juices, leave the peel on for extra nutrients. The best lemon juice often comes from partially peeled fruits.
Juicing Process Step-By-Step
Machine Setup
Assemble your Breville juicer according to the manual. Ensure all parts are securely locked in place. Place the juice container and pulp collector in position.
Optimal Speed Settings
Breville juicers typically offer multiple speeds:
| Speed | Best For |
|---|---|
| Low (6,500 RPM) | Soft fruits like peeled lemons |
| High (13,000 RPM) | Unpeeled citrus or mixed juices |
Feeding Technique
Feed lemon quarters one at a time using the pusher. Apply gentle, consistent pressure – forcing too hard can damage the machine. Alternate with harder produce like apples or carrots to help push through pulp.
Maximizing Juice Yield
Temperature Tricks
Room temperature lemons yield 20-30% more juice than cold ones. Microwave whole lemons for 10-15 seconds before cutting for even better results.
Rolling Method
Before cutting, roll lemons firmly on the counter while applying pressure. This breaks down internal membranes for easier juice extraction.
Cleaning And Maintenance
Immediate Cleaning
Disassemble and rinse all parts immediately after use. Use the included brush to clean the mesh filter thoroughly. Lemon acidity can damage components if left sitting.
Deep Cleaning
Weekly, soak removable parts in warm soapy water. For stubborn pulp, use a vinegar solution (1 part vinegar to 3 parts water). Never submerge the motor base.
Creative Uses For Lemon Juice
Culinary Applications
Fresh lemon juice elevates:
- Salad dressings and marinades
- Seafood dishes
- Baked goods
- Cocktails and lemonades
Health And Beauty
Lemon juice has multiple benefits:
- Natural detoxifier when added to water
- Skin brightener in homemade masks
- Hair lightener when applied before sun exposure
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Bitter Juice
If juice tastes unpleasantly bitter:
- Remove more white pith when peeling
- Use less peel in the juicer
- Balance with sweeter juices like carrot or apple
Low Yield
For more juice per lemon:
- Ensure lemons are at room temperature
- Roll before cutting as mentioned above
- Consider a higher-powered juicer for frequent use
Advanced Tips
Juice Storage
Fresh lemon juice lasts:
- 2-3 days refrigerated in airtight glass
- Up to 6 months frozen in ice cube trays
Pulp Utilization
Don’t discard nutritious pulp. Use it in:
- Baking (add to muffin or cake batter)
- Homemade cleaning scrubs
- Compost for gardening
According to Breville’s juicing guide, alternating soft and hard produce helps push through all the juice. This technique works particularly well with citrus.
For those interested in expanding their juicing repertoire, consider pairing lemon with ingredients from our guide to the best superfoods to juice for maximum nutritional benefits.
