Citron (pronounced “chit-ron”), a variety of bergamot fruit, usually grows in Southeast Asia and South America. It wows with its one-of-a-kind taste and aroma.
The citron shares its name with the other citrus fruit of the same species, but it is not related to lemons or limes.
When you take a look at a citron, you may be surprised by how much it resembles a lemon.
Both have thick skin, white flesh, and a juicy pulp inside.
However, there are several key differences between the two.
Let’s explore them below.
What is the botanical name for citron?
A botanical name refers to the scientific classification of a plant or animal.
In this case, the botanical name for the citron is Citrus medica var. citrica.
This means that the citron is an edible citrus fruit from the genus Citrus.
What is the difference between a lemon and a citron?
Lemons and citrons both belong to the same family and share similar characteristics.
They are both members of the citrus family.
In fact, when we first discovered these fruits, they were sometimes confused for one another!
When people say they are looking for a “lemony” or “citrussy” taste, they are really talking about the citron.
However, the two do have some distinct differences.
For example, the lemon has more acid than the citron.
In addition, the citron has thinner skin, which makes it easier to peel.
Another important distinction is that the citron is smaller and rounder than the lemon.
These differences allow each fruit to have different properties when eaten.
Limes, for instance, are often used as a substitute for lemon in cooking because their flavor is very similar.
But if you want something that tastes like a real lemon, then the citron is what you need.
What is the origin of the citron?
Citron was originally cultivated in China around 500 years ago.
The Chinese also introduced the citron to the Middle East and Africa during this time period.
It took longer to spread throughout Europe, where the citron was first planted in 1505.
Today, the citron is widely available and is now produced around the world.
What are the main uses of citron?
There are numerous ways that citron can be used in food and drinks.
You can add it to your morning coffee, tea, cocktails, and smoothies.
Citron helps to enhance the flavor of foods, especially spicy ones.
You can also use it to make jams, jellies, marmalades, and candies.
Citron juice is great for making lemonade and limeade.
Citron can even help improve the flavor of wine!
What are the health benefits of citron?
The citron is extremely high in vitamin C.
A cup of fresh lemony water contains nearly 100% of the daily recommended dose of vitamin C.
Additionally, citron is packed with antioxidants, such as Vitamin E and polyphenols.
These compounds help protect our bodies from free radicals, which can cause cancer and damage to DNA.
What are the nutritional values of citron?
As mentioned above, the citron is loaded with nutrients.
One medium-sized citron contains about 90 calories, 2 grams of protein, 3 grams of carbohydrates, 13 milligrams of calcium, 8 milligrams of iron, and 12 milligrams of potassium.
Vitamins B1, B2, B6, niacin, pantothenic acid, folic acid, riboflavin, thiamine, and biotin are all found in the citron, too.
What are the side effects of citron?
Although citron is incredibly healthy, it has some potential risks that should be taken into consideration before using it.
Some people who are allergic to citrus fruits or who suffer from asthma may experience anaphylactic shock after eating citron.
If possible, avoid consuming large amounts of citron on an empty stomach.
How can I store citron?
Since the citron is so perishable, it is best to buy it fresh rather than frozen or canned.
As soon as you get home, place the citron in the refrigerator immediately.
Citron will keep in the fridge for up to three weeks.
If you plan to freeze it, do so within five days.
What are some recipes that use citron?
Because the citron is so versatile, it is common to find it in various types of cuisine.
Here are just a few examples:
In Asian cuisine, the citron adds bright lemon flavor to soups, sauces, salad dressings, and desserts.
Citron juice is commonly added to hot teas and lemonade.
Even though lemons are the preferred citrus fruit among most Asians, many prefer citron because it offers a richer, sweeter flavor.
In Middle Eastern cuisine, citron is known for its ability to add intense flavor to spice mixtures and stews.
In addition, it is commonly used in salads and cooked vegetables.
In Mexican cuisine, citron is often combined with tomatoes in sauces and salsas.
Citron is also a favorite ingredient in ceviche.
Citron can be used alone or in combination with other citrus fruits.
In Italian cuisine, citron is often paired with basil and pine nuts to create pesto.
Citron can also be used in vinaigrettes, salads, and risottos.
What are some fun facts about citron?
Citron originated in Persia, meaning that it was probably cultivated in Iran thousands of years ago.
Although citron is native to the eastern coast of North Africa, it is now farmed worldwide.
Citron trees produce small yellow flowers, and the fruit matures between June and September.
The citron does not grow well in cold climates.
It is highly susceptible to frost and freezes easily.
Citron trees are usually harvested by hand, and the process can take anywhere from 20 minutes to 30 minutes.
After harvesting, the fruits are picked, transported to the processing plant, and sorted.
From there, they are washed, peeled, and cut into segments.
I have a true passion for cooking and experimenting with new ingredients, and I have been creating and perfecting recipes for friends and family for years.
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