Finger lime
Citron caviar
| Latin name | Citrus australasica |
|---|---|
| Family | Fruits |
| Origin | Australian rainforest |
| Season (France) | September – December |
| Flavour | Citrusy · Tangy · Fresh · Delicate |
| Typical price (France) | 80–180 €/kg |
What it is
Australia’s rainforest kept this secret for millennia: a finger-shaped citrus whose flesh falls apart into hundreds of pearls that pop on the tongue like sour caviar. Aboriginal peoples ate it long before bush-food chefs made it the most photographed garnish in fine dining.
In the kitchen
Halve it and squeeze gently — the pearls flow out intact. Spoon them over oysters or scallops at the very last second; heat collapses the caviar.
Goes with
Same species
Bergamot Candied citron Chenpi Citron Menton lemon Makrut lime
Also used with
Sydney rock oyster Langoustine
In season alongside
Lemon verbena Robiola di Roccaverano Yuzu Apple Sweetfish (ayu) Baek-kimchi
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