Buddha Hand Lemon - Exotic Beauty

The Buddha Hand Lemon: A special kind of citrus fruit

The Buddha Hand lemon (Citrus medica var. sarcodactylis) is a rare variety of lemon that owes its name to its unusual appearance. Instead of the typical lemon shape, this fruit features long, finger-like segments reminiscent of the clasped hands of a meditating Buddha. This fascinating appearance makes the Buddha Hand lemon a true eye-catcher in any fruit bowl.

This citrus fruit originates from East Asia, where it has been used in traditional medicine and cooking for centuries. It has now made a name for itself in other parts of the world and is enjoying increasing popularity among chefs and foodies.

Taste and use of Buddha hand lemon

Although the Buddha Hand lemon resembles a lemon visually, its flavor differs significantly from its more familiar cousin. Instead of the typical citric acid, it has a very mild, almost sweet flavor reminiscent of lemon oil. This unique taste makes it an ideal ingredient for a variety of dishes and beverages.

The Buddha hand lemon has a wide range of culinary uses. Its aromatic flesh is perfect for seasoning salads, soups, sauces, and desserts. It also unfolds its full flavor in cocktails, teas, or as a topping for baked goods. The peel can also be candied or used as zest to give dishes a special kick.

In addition to its culinary use, the Buddha hand lemon is also valued in traditional Chinese medicine. There, it is considered a "lucky lemon" and is said to promote digestion and improve mood, among other things.

Cultivation and origin of the Buddha Hand lemon

The Buddha Hand lemon originates from the subtropical regions of East Asia, particularly China and Japan. It has long been cultivated in gardens and plantations there. Cultivation has now become established in other parts of the world, such as California and Southern Europe.

The tree on which Buddha Hand lemons grow is an evergreen citrus tree that can grow up to 6 meters tall. The fruits themselves ripen over several months, developing their characteristic shape and aromatic aroma.

Due to their rarity and the laborious harvesting process, Buddha Hand lemons are not yet as widespread in Europe as they are in Asia. However, they are gaining increasing popularity here as more and more people appreciate their unique appearance and distinctive flavor profile.

Where can you buy Buddha hand lemons?

Unfortunately, it's still not easy to find Buddha hand lemons in Germany. This exotic fruit is mainly sold in Asian supermarkets, at farmers' markets, or in delicatessens. Some organic food chains and online delicatessen shops like www.Obstwelt.com now also carry them in their range.

Buddha hand lemon jam

Ingredients (for approx. 4 glasses of 250 ml each)

• 3 Buddha hand lemons
• 2 oranges
• 1 kg sugar
• 1.5 liters of water
• 2 lemons (juice, for extra acidity)
• 1 vanilla pod

preparation

1. Preparing the lemons :

   • Washing : Wash the Buddha Hand lemons and oranges thoroughly under running water.
   • Peeling : Use a vegetable peeler to thinly grate the outer, yellow rind of the Buddha Hand lemons. Be careful to remove only the yellow layer and avoid the bitter white part (albedo) as much as possible. Peel the oranges in the same way, removing the white pith if possible.
   • Prepare the pulp : Cut the peeled Buddha hand lemons and oranges into small pieces, removing the seeds.

2. Soaking :

   • Place the prepared pulp into a large pot.
   • Add water and lemon juice.
   • Optional: Cut the vanilla pod lengthwise, scrape out the seeds and add them to the pot.
   • Let everything soak together overnight or at least 6 hours at room temperature to release the flavors.

3. Cook :

   • Bring the pot with the fruit and water mixture to a boil.
   • Slowly stir in the sugar until it is completely dissolved.
   • Reduce the heat and simmer the jam gently for about 1 to 1.5 hours, until it thickens. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

4. Gelling test :

   • Place a small spoonful of jam onto a cold plate and check if it sets. If it does, the jam is ready.

5. Filling :

   • Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars.
   • Close the jars immediately and turn them upside down for a few minutes to create a vacuum.
   • Allow to cool and store in a cool, dark place.

Use:

• On bread or rolls : An aromatic alternative to conventional jam.
• In desserts : As a filling for pastries, pancakes or waffles.
• As a glaze : For cakes or pastries to add a lemony sweetness.

Tip : For a more intense flavor, you can add some ginger or cardamom while cooking.

Conclusion: The Buddha Hand Lemon - a must for connoisseurs

The Buddha hand lemon is a truly fascinating fruit, not only visually impressive but also delicious. Its culinary versatility, its health benefits, and its rarity make it a true highlight for all connoisseurs.

Whether you use it in salads, desserts, or drinks, the Buddha Hand lemon is guaranteed to elevate your dishes to a new level. So don't hesitate to discover this unique citrus fruit for yourself! We at Obstwelt look forward to introducing you to this special product.