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Citrus sphaerocarpa
Kabosu is a Japanese citrus fruit with distinctive tart acidic flavor and aromatic zest. Exceptional source of vitamin C (72% DV) supporting immune function and antioxidant defense. Rich in citric acid and limonoids providing powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits. Low in calories (30 per 100g) ideal for weight management. Good source of fiber (1.8g) supporting digestive health. Unique acidic profile superior to lemon with aromatic essential oils. Small round green fruit maintaining structural integrity when cooking. Native to Oita Prefecture Japan, kabosu gaining international recognition as culinary superfruit supporting immune wellness.
Sustainability insights
Kabosu cultivation represents Japanese agricultural practice with environmental considerations. Benefits include tree cultivation in established orchards, regional agricultural heritage preservation, biodiversity support in Oita Prefecture, and sustainable traditional farming methods. Challenges include pesticide use in conventional cultivation, long-distance international transportation carbon footprint, water usage in cultivation, and limited cultivation regions. Sustainable practices include organic farming, integrated pest management, supporting traditional Japanese producers, and regional consumption.
Explore Kabosu in stunning detail

Kabosu - Main View
East Asia, Japan
Each variety offers unique flavors, textures, and culinary applications
Keep your fruit fresh and delicious for longer
Select firm kabosu without soft spots or bruises
Choose fragrant fruits with aromatic zest
Look for green color for maximum tartness and acidity
Discover delicious possibilities
Kabosu allergies extremely rare with minimal documented cases. Citrus fruit allergies uncommon in general population. Allergic reactions very uncommon. Generally safe for most individuals. Those with severe citrus allergies should consult allergist. Pollen-related reactions possible but rare.
Kabosu cultivated with varying pesticide practices in Japan and Asian regions. Organic kabosu available from certified Japanese producers. Conventional fruit acceptable with water rinsing. Japanese suppliers often emphasizing traditional and sustainable cultivation practices.
Surprising trivia you'll love!
Kabosu native to Oita Prefecture Japan with centuries of cultivation in single Japanese region making it uniquely Japanese citrus
Kabosu distinctive Japanese citrus with unique characteristics differentiating from common citrus. EXCEPTIONAL VITAMIN C: 72% DV supporting exceptional immune function. Antioxidant defense superior. Cellular protection. Compared to lemon: Higher vitamin C than lemon. Different aromatic profile. More complex flavor. Traditional Japanese use. ACIDIC PROFILE: Extremely tart acidic flavor. Citric acid concentration high. More acidic than lemon per volume. Superior juice extraction. Culinary applications extensive. LIMONOIDS CONTENT: Unique cancer-fighting compounds. Antimicrobial properties. Anti-inflammatory benefits. Comparable to other citrus but higher concentration. Disease prevention. COMPARED TO YUZU: Yuzu more fragrant zest. Kabosu more acidic juice. Different applications. Kabosu superior for juice. Yuzu superior for fragrance. Both Japanese premium citrus. AROMATIC PROFILE: Essential oils aromatic complex. Zest fragrant distinctive. Therapeutic aromatherapy uses. Culinary aromatics. Flavor complexity. FLAVOR PROFILE: Intensely tart acidic without sweetness. Complex flavor notes. Superior juice quality. Culinary versatility. Japanese culinary tradition. JUICE EXTRACTION: Superior juice yield. More juice than most citrus. Efficient extraction. Commercial juice production. Culinary applications extensive. CULINARY VERSATILITY: Sashimi essential accompaniment. Noodle soup traditional. Fish preparation foundation. Marinade base. Sauce ingredient. Japanese cuisine staple. SHELF STABILITY: Maintains acidity longer than lemon. Juice stability extended. Flavor preservation. Storage advantages. TRADITIONAL USE: Japanese cuisine foundation. Centuries of cultivation. Cultural significance. Traditional preparation methods. Wellness traditions. BOTTOM LINE: Kabosu unique Japanese citrus with exceptional vitamin C (72% DV), extremely high acidity superior to lemon, unique limonoids with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory benefits, complex aromatic profile, superior juice quality and yield, essential element in Japanese sashimi and noodle cuisine, centuries of traditional use, and distinctive flavor complexity compared to lemon and yuzu.
Kabosu carbon footprint varies by cultivation region and transportation method. Primary cultivation in Oita Prefecture Japan. Long-distance international shipping increasing carbon impact significantly. Organic cultivation reducing overall environmental footprint. Supporting Japanese local production reducing transportation. Seasonal purchasing when available.
Kabosu cultivation requires moderate water adapted to Japanese rainfall patterns. Tree cultivation requiring consistent moisture during growing season. Established orchards in water-adequate regions. Sustainable water management possible. Rainfed cultivation supporting natural growth. Irrigation supplementation in dry periods.
Supporting Japanese kabosu producers from Oita Prefecture maximizes environmental benefit. Direct Japanese sourcing. Sustainable farming practices preferred. Seasonal purchasing supporting traditional cultivation. Local processing reducing carbon footprint. Supporting Japanese agricultural heritage. BEST PRACTICES: Choose Oita Prefecture kabosu, support traditional Japanese producers, source from sustainable suppliers, purchase seasonally when available, minimize processing and packaging.
Per 100g
Per 100g
Nutrition breakdown for one serving
Kabosu native to Oita Prefecture Japan with centuries of cultivation. Unique Japanese citrus gaining popularity in 20th century. Traditional Japanese cuisine foundation. Culinary significance expanding with international recognition. Korean cuisine adoption increasing. Asian cuisine staple supporting health traditions. Modern international expansion introducing kabosu globally. Japanese culinary heritage emphasizing kabosu significance. Traditional juice preparation methods preserving culture.
Peak season September-November in Northern Hemisphere
Yellow color indicates ripeness but reduced acidity
Heavier fruits contain more juice
Avoid overly soft or wrinkled specimens
Purchase from Japanese markets for authentic varieties
Check for bright glossy skin indicating freshness
Store at room temperature up to 2 weeks
Refrigerate for extended storage up to 3 weeks
Keep in produce drawer away from ethylene-producing fruits
Do not wash before storing to preserve shelf life
Preserve freshness for months
Kabosu can be frozen whole for up to 3 months
Exceptional vitamin C (72% DV) among highest of citrus fruits supporting superior immune function and antioxidant defense
More acidic than lemon per volume making it superior juice source for Japanese sashimi preparation and culinary applications
Unique limonoids and flavonoids provide cancer-fighting, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory benefits comparable to grapefruit
Traditional sashimi essential accompaniment for centuries with direct fruit squeezing as proper Japanese culinary technique
Essential oils in kabosu zest provide aromatic complexity superior to lemon with therapeutic aromatherapy properties
Very low calorie (30/100g) making it ideal hydrating citrus for weight management and metabolic health
Juice maintains acidity and flavor stability longer than lemon supporting extended storage and culinary applications
Japanese culinary export expanding internationally with Korean and Southeast Asian cuisine adoption increasing rapidly
Modern scientific research validating centuries of traditional Japanese wellness knowledge about kabosu health benefits
Kabosu versatile Japanese culinary ingredient with traditional applications emphasizing acidic flavor enhancement. SASHIMI SEASONING: Traditional Japanese pairing. Direct fruit squeezing. Juice over raw fish. Essential accompaniment. Flavor enhancement. Culinary foundation. NOODLE TOPPING: Cold noodle soups traditional. Hot noodle soup application. Acidic enhancement. Flavor complexity. Japanese culinary staple. FRESH JUICE: Direct consumption. Beverage preparation. Shochu cocktail base. Sports drink alternative. Vitamin C delivery. Traditional refreshment. MARINADE PREPARATION: Fish marinades traditional. Poultry marinades. Vegetable preservation. Acidic base. Citric acid component. Tenderizing properties. SAUCE ENHANCEMENT: Ponzu sauce base traditional. Dipping sauce preparation. Acidic component. Flavor complexity. Japanese sauce foundation. GRILLED FISH: Direct squeeze over fish. Acidic complement. Flavor enhancement. Traditional preparation. Culinary application. RICE BOWL TOPPING: Donburi preparation. Acidic enhancement. Flavor balance. Traditional application. Culinary use. BASIC SASHIMI PREPARATION: Fresh kabosu 1 fruit, cut in half, squeeze over sashimi immediately before consumption. BASIC PONZU SAUCE: Kabosu juice 100ml, soy sauce 100ml, mirin 50ml, kombu seaweed 5g, bonito flakes 10g, combine and simmer gently, strain before serving. COLD NOODLE SOUP: Prepare cold soba or udon, add chilled dipping sauce (ponzu or tsuyu), top with kabosu juice and fresh vegetables. GRILLED FISH PREPARATION: Season fish with salt, grill until cooked, squeeze kabosu juice generously over finished fish. MARINATED MUSHROOMS: Slice mushrooms, combine with kabosu juice, soy sauce, and oil, marinate 2-4 hours. STORAGE: Fresh kabosu juice lasting 5-7 days. Ponzu sauce lasting 2-3 weeks. Marinades lasting 1 week. BOTTOM LINE: Kabosu quintessential Japanese culinary ingredient with traditional sashimi seasoning, noodle soup topping, fresh juice consumption, marinade base, ponzu sauce foundation, grilled fish enhancement, rice bowl application, and diverse recipes highlighting distinctive intensely tart acidic flavor and aromatic complexity central to Japanese cuisine.
Kabosu safe for consumption with minimal documented safety concerns. Generally well-tolerated by most populations. ALLERGY INFO: Kabosu allergies extremely rare. Citrus fruit allergies uncommon. Allergic reactions very uncommon. Generally safe for most individuals. Those with severe citrus allergies should consult allergist. Pollen-related reactions possible in sensitive individuals. ACIDIC CONCERNS: High citric acid content potentially irritating sensitive mouths. Enamel erosion with excessive consumption. Rinse mouth after consumption. Sensitive individuals using straws. DIGESTIVE CONSIDERATIONS: Acidic fruit potentially causing reflux in sensitive individuals. Introduce gradually. Adequate overall nutrition. High acid tolerance adaptation. Some individuals experiencing digestive effects. PREGNANCY CONSIDERATIONS: Kabosu safe during pregnancy. Vitamin C important. Folate present. High acidity note. Moderation recommended. Consult healthcare provider. CHILDREN CONSIDERATIONS: Kabosu safe for children. High acidity potentially irritating young mouths. Dilute juice if necessary. Pollen-related concerns minimal. Nutritious food option. ORAL HEALTH: High acidity potentially affecting tooth enamel with excessive consumption. Rinse mouth after consumption. Limit acidic exposure. Protect tooth enamel. Moderation important. MEDICATION INTERACTIONS: Kabosu unlikely to interact with medications. High vitamin C note for specific medications. Consult healthcare provider if concerns. Acidic nature consideration. SIDE EFFECTS: Minimal side effects documented. Some experiencing mouth irritation from high acidity. Rare allergic reactions if citrus-sensitive. Most individuals tolerating well. STORAGE SAFETY: Room temperature storage preferred. Refrigerate for extended storage. Use before deterioration. Proper handling important. Fresh consumption optimal. PESTICIDE CONCERNS: Kabosu cultivated with varying practices in Japan and Asia. Organic kabosu available. Conventional fruit acceptable. Wash before consuming. Japanese suppliers often sustainable. BOTTOM LINE: Kabosu safe for consumption with minimal documented safety concerns, extremely rare citrus allergies, high citric acid potentially irritating sensitive mouths, tooth enamel protection important with excessive consumption, no contraindicated medications except special cases, proper rinsing after consumption recommended, and consultation with healthcare provider appropriate for specific individual concerns.
Kabosu profound cultural significance in Japanese culinary tradition and emerging international recognition. JAPANESE ORIGINS: Native to Oita Prefecture Japan. Centuries of cultivation in Japanese region. Unique Japanese citrus identity. Traditional use foundation. Regional pride and heritage. SASHIMI TRADITION: Essential sashimi accompaniment for centuries. Japanese fine dining staple. Culinary foundation. Flavor tradition. Cultural identity. NOODLE CUISINE: Traditional soba and udon topping. Cold noodle soup essential. Hot noodle soup enhancement. Japanese culinary staple. Traditional preparation methods. REGIONAL IDENTITY: Oita Prefecture signature fruit. Local agricultural heritage. Regional economic importance. Tourist attraction. Cultural symbol. CULINARY PRESTIGE: Premium Japanese ingredient status. Fine dining association. Culinary excellence. Traditional prestige. International recognition. TRADITIONAL PREPARATION: Historical juice methods. Generational knowledge transmission. Culinary arts foundation. Cultural continuity. Wellness traditions. MODERN EXPANSION: Korean cuisine adoption increasing. Thai cuisine incorporation. Vietnamese cuisine exploration. Asian culinary expansion. International interest growing. EXPORT DEVELOPMENT: Japanese export markets expanding. Premium product positioning. International availability increasing. Specialty market growth. Global recognition emerging. HEALTH AWARENESS: Traditional wellness practices. Vitamin C knowledge. Immune support emphasis. Modern scientific validation. Health community interest. MICHELIN DINING: High-end restaurants featuring kabosu. Culinary innovation. Artistic presentations. International chef adoption. Prestige elevation. DIASPORA SIGNIFICANCE: Japanese communities maintaining traditions. Cultural heritage preservation. Identity connection. Intergenerational transmission. AUTHENTIC SOURCING: Japanese kabosu demand increasing. Authentic experience seeking. Premium pricing justifying. Quality emphasis. Cultural authenticity. BOTTOM LINE: Kabosu profound cultural significance as centuries-old Japanese citrus native to Oita Prefecture, essential sashimi and noodle cuisine foundation, regional identity and agricultural heritage, premium culinary prestige in Japanese fine dining, emerging Korean and Southeast Asian cuisine adoption, expanding international export markets, modern health awareness scientific validation of traditional wellness properties, Michelin dining integration, and growing international recognition as premium authentic Japanese ingredient.
Can be frozen whole up to 3 months
Juice can be frozen in ice cube trays for convenient use
Zest can be frozen in airtight container up to 3 months
Room temperature storage intensifying aroma
Thaw before juicing for optimal juice extraction
Frozen kabosu excellent for cooked applications
Juice freezes well in ice cube trays
Zest freezes separately for convenient use
Frozen fruit maintains vitamin C content
Label frozen items with the date to track freshness. Most fruits maintain quality for 2-3 months when properly frozen. For best results, use airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.