Fruits : Standard groups
Synonyms: Bearss lime, Tahiti lime
botanical name: Citrus latifolia
Contrary to widespread belief, limes are not green lemons but rather an independent citrus species. The common lime is probably native to Persia (Iran) and is a cross between the Mexican lime and the citron. Limes are cultivated in the tropics and subtropics and meanwhile enjoy a growing popularity in our markets.
Availability
Limes are available all year round.
Appearance, taste, characteristics
Limes resemble lemons in shape, but the ends are more flattened. They are green to yellow on the outside, with a thin, fine-pored peel. In addition to being juicy, the pulp is green and seedless. Lime juice tastes very sour, but it is more aromatic than lemon juice. Compared with the lemon, the lime contains considerably more juice.
Ingredients
The lime contains a large amount of vitamin C but less than the lemon. It also contains the secondary plant substance hesperidin, one of the polyphenols, or more precisely, one of the flavonoids.
100 g contain:
|
Lime, fresh |
Lime juice |
Energy (kcal) |
47 |
92 |
Water (g) |
89 |
78 |
Protein (g) |
1 |
<1 |
Fat (g) |
2 |
2 |
Carbohydrates (g) |
2 |
15 |
Fibre (g) |
1 |
<1 |
Vitamin C (mg) |
44 |
23 |
Vitamin A (RE) (µg) |
2 |
2 |
Folic acid (µg) |
8 |
4 |
Potassium (mg) |
82 |
62 |
Sodium (mg) |
2 |
2 |
Calcium (mg) |
13 |
12 |
Magnesium (mg) |
16 |
13 |
Iron (mg) |
0.2 |
0.2 |
Foreign substances
To prevent citrus fruits from getting mouldy during transport and storage, the peel of conventionally grown fruits is often treated with preservatives. The peel of fruits treated in this way is not suitable for eating or using in cooking.
Quality criteria, optimal storage conditions
When buying limes, be sure that they are firm, plump, and rather heavy relative to their size. The peel should be a deep green, smooth, and slightly shiny. Yellow spots on the peel are not a flaw, whereas dull, soft, or dried-out fruits are not recommended, as they are no longer fresh.
Because its peel is so thin, the lime dries out quickly. Therefore, limes cannot be kept as long lemons. However, storage in the refrigerator for 1 week is no problem.
Form of consumption, use, processing, practical tips for preparation
The lime is considered to be the lemon of the tropics and is used as such there. Here, the lime is becoming more and more popular, used in desserts, soft drinks, or cocktails (caipirinha), for example. However, it is also very good in sauces or vinaigrettes and enhances the aroma of poultry, fish, vegetables and vegetable soups. Limes are more expensive than lemons and are therefore reserved for exquisite dishes. Juice or concentrate is made from limes industrially. These products are popular ingredients in soft drinks and alcoholic drinks and are used to make jellies. The essential oil of the lime is also employed in the production of perfumes and soaps.
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