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Citrus hystrix
Kaffir limes are distinctive wrinkled, bumpy citrus fruits prized for their intensely aromatic leaves and fragrant zest rather than juice. With vibrant lime-green color and powerful citrus aroma, they're essential in Southeast Asian cuisine. Rich in vitamin C (50% DV), limonene, and volatile oils, kaffir limes provide immunity support and unique flavoring compounds. At only 30 calories per 100g with high vitamin C density, both the zest and leaves deliver exceptional culinary and nutritional benefits. Perfect for authentic Thai, Vietnamese, and Malaysian cooking.
Sustainability insights
Kaffir lime cultivation can be sustainable with proper farming practices. Support fair-trade growers.
Explore Kaffir Lime in stunning detail

Kaffir Lime - Main View
Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand and Cambodia
Each variety offers unique flavors, textures, and culinary applications
Keep your fruit fresh and delicious for longer
Select firm kaffir limes with bright green, unblemished skin
Look for heavy fruit indicating moisture content
Avoid dried, shriveled, or overly soft limes
Discover delicious possibilities
Citrus allergies are rare but possible. Symptoms include itching or mouth irritation.
Kaffir limes may have pesticide residues. Wash thoroughly before use.
Surprising trivia you'll love!
Kaffir limes are more aromatic than regular limes despite lower juice content
Primarily the zest and leaves are used for their intense aroma. The juice is less acidic than regular limes but can be used in small quantities for flavoring.
Imported kaffir limes from Southeast Asia have moderate transportation carbon footprint.
Kaffir lime trees require moderate water typical of citrus cultivation.
Supporting Southeast Asian growers helps preserve traditional cultivation practices and supports local economies.
Per 100g
Per 100g
Nutrition breakdown for one serving
Kaffir limes have been cultivated for centuries in Southeast Asia, integral to traditional cuisine. The name 'kaffir' comes from Arabic origins and is particularly valued in Thai cooking.
Year-round availability in tropical regions
Store at room temperature for 1-2 weeks
Refrigerate in crisper drawer for up to 3 weeks
Freeze zest separately in ice cube trays for long-term storage
Wrap leaves in damp paper towel and refrigerate for up to 1 week
Preserve freshness for months
Zest and freeze in ice cube trays for 6 months
The bumpy, wrinkled skin contains concentrated aromatic oils
Kaffir lime leaves are used in traditional Thai medicine
One kaffir lime zest equals the aroma of three regular limes
Kaffir limes are essential in authentic Southeast Asian cuisine
Regular limes provide acidity but lack the distinctive aromatic quality. For authentic Thai cooking, kaffir limes are preferable for aroma and flavor depth.
Fresh or dried leaves are added to soups, curries, and broths. Tear or bruise them before use to release aromatic oils.
Found in Asian markets, specialty produce stores, and increasingly in mainstream supermarkets. Online sources also offer fresh and frozen options.
Freeze whole leaves in plastic bags for 3-4 months
Freeze lime juice in containers for up to 6 months
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.