Citrus hystrix, called the kaffir lime or makrut lime, (US: /ˈmækrət/, UK: /məkˈruːt/) is a citrus fruit native to tropical Southeast Asia and southern China.
| Kaffir lime | |
|---|---|
| Family: | Rutaceae |
| Genus: | Citrus |
| Species: | C. hystrix |
| Binomial name |
Why are lime leaves called kaffir?
In 1998, he and writer Cara De Silva proposed in the journal Petits Propos Culinaires that the lime gained its name from Indian Muslims, who borrowed the Arabic word kafara (“infidel” or “disbeliever”) to describe products coming from Buddhist Southeast Asia.
How can you tell a kaffir lime?
Characterized by the unique figure-eight shape of it’s double leaf, this ingredient is also identified by it’s distinct and explosive bright, floral and citrusy aroma. The upper side of the leaf is dark green and glossy and the underside is a lighter green with no sheen.
Can you use normal lime leaves in cooking?
Most commonly, fresh, whole lime leaves are added to flavor dishes like curries and soups, similar to how bay leaves are used. But they can also be sliced very thinly and added raw to salads and other fresh dishes.
What do kaffir limes look like?
They are dark green with a bumpy surface. In order for the Kaffir lime tree to produce any limes, be sure to provide plenty of light for flowering. Since they produce very little juice, the juice and flesh of Kaffir limes is rarely used, but the sour-tasting rind can be finely grated and used for flavoring dishes.
Where can I buy kaffir lime?
You can buy kaffir lime leaves from Vietnamese or Asian food stores. Some Chinese food stores also sell these leaves. You can find these leaves usually with other dried herbs, in the freezer section, or with other fresh produce.
Do you eat kaffir lime leaves?
There’s no need for preparation as you won’t eat the leaves themselves. When using kaffir lime leaves to decorate a curry, you’ll want to cut them into thin strips that are easy to digest. First, fold each leaf in half and pull out the tough rib in the middle.
Why is my kaffir lime turning yellow?
Yellowing leaves on your kaffir lime is very typical of many citrus trees at this time of the year. It is symptomatic of a nutrient deficiency, especially nitrogen. As ‘gross feeders’, citrus respond very well to regular applications of citrus fertiliser.
How big do kaffir limes grow?
Kaffir limes will reach 1.5 metres (5′) tall, but because the leaves are constantly being picked for cooking, the plants usually remain small in size. They also make good pot specimens. The leaves of the Kaffir lime are an essential ingredient of many Thai recipes, including green curries, fish dishes and soups.
What tree do limes grow on?
Lime trees are large, deciduous broadleaf trees, also known as Linden trees. They have fresh green, heart-shaped leaves, hanging clusters of yellow-green flowers, and small round fruits.
What can u use instead of kaffir lime leaves?
If you don’t have access to fresh kaffir lime leaves, use the zest of a lime to add a fresh, citrus flavour to your dish. Other substitutes include Persian limes (also known as a Tahiti lime, or a seedless lime) or lemon zest.
What do kaffir leaves taste like?
Kaffir lime leaves are an aromatic Asian leaf most often used in Thai, Indonesian and Cambodian recipes. They have a spiced-citrus flavour which is a lot lighter and zestier than a bay leaf or curry leaf. Perfect for lifting a coconut-based broth or fragrant fish curry.
Can I use lime leaves from my tree?
Lime tree leaves are edible! Ideally, the main rib is removed, then the leaves are stored in the fridge or freezer before using them. Fresh lime leaves are popular in many Southeast Asian dishes including Thai hot and sour soup, Tom Yum soup, and beef rendang.
Does kaffir lime have thorns?
In the case of Kaffir limes, strong spines up to 1 ½ inches long protrude from the branches just beneath each cluster of lemon-scented leaves. The thorns on small, shrubby Key limes are just as sharp. But they’re also much more numerous, and — at only 3/8-inches long — much harder to spot.
How do you use kaffir lime zest?
Kaffir lime zest is perfect for making red and green curry pastes or using as a marinade for chicken, pork or lamb dishes. To make a curry paste, start by grinding sliced lemongrass and galangal using a mortar and pestle.
When should I prune my kaffir lime tree?
Prune the best branches back to a strong, outward-facing bud. In spring, these will shoot strongly in the direction they are facing. “When it comes to citrus, like this Kaffir lime, you just want to take the lower growth off.
Can you substitute lemon leaves for kaffir lime leaves?
If you want the same flavor without doing anything special, you should try any of these best substitutes for Kaffir lime leaves: lemongrass, lemon thyme, curry leaves, dill, or bay leaves. Depending on the dish you’re cooking, any substitutes can be adequate or preferable.
What is the best fertilizer for lime trees?
Fertilizers for Lime Trees
Chemical fertilizers for citrus contain nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium in varying percentages. For instance, an 8-8-8 food is good for young limes that are not yet bearing but a mature fruit bearer will need more nitrogen so switch to a 12-0-12 formula.
Do lime trees need fertilizer?
Fertilize frequently – Lime trees are heavy feeders. They will quickly deplete the soil around them, in the ground or in a container. Be sure to fertilize every few months with compost or a nitrogen-rich fertilizer. Keep them warm – Lime trees cannot tolerate temperatures much under 50 degrees F.
How often should you water lemon and lime trees?
Watering is one of the most important things to consider. Your tree needs to be watered twice a week until it begins to show new growth. After that, citrus trees like to dry out between watering, so once your trees are established, deep-water once every 10 days to two weeks.
How often do lime trees produce fruit?
Seedling trees begin to blossom and fruit in 3 to 6 years and reach full production in 8 to 10 years. Fruit is harvested during two periods each year, May–June and November–December.
Justin Shelton is a professional cook. He’s been in the industry for over 10 years, and he loves nothing more than creating delicious dishes for others to enjoy. Justin has worked in some of the best kitchens in the country, and he’s always looking for new challenges and ways to improve his craft. When he’s not cooking, Justin enjoys spending time with his wife and son. He loves exploring new restaurants and trying out different cuisines.