It is normal for chenpi to be slightly bitter, but “the more bitter, the better” is not accurate. Taste and quality should be judged in combination.
Flavor Characteristics
Chenpi is made from citrus peel that is dried and aged. Its flavor often includes:
- Bitterness: from bitter compounds in the peel;
- Sweetness: more noticeable as aging progresses;
- Light acidity: present in some peel.
Bitterness and Age
- Lower-aged chenpi: bitterness and acidity are more direct, aroma is lighter;
- Higher-aged chenpi: bitterness usually softens and the aroma is more restrained.
Why Bitterness Might Be Too Strong
- Poor aging conditions: moisture or temperature swings can affect flavor;
- Variety and harvest differences: different citrus types and maturity levels change taste;
- Processing issues: over-drying or insufficient aging can result in harsher bitterness.
Overall, bitterness is only one aspect of flavor and does not by itself indicate higher quality.