What are the key lime?
Key lime ( citrus aurarantifolia swingle ) is a smaller, fragrant cousin of a common Persian lime. Key lime is between only 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) diameter, they are much smaller than other lime.
The key lime is distinguished in a way other than the size. Its bark, slightly thinner and softer than the larger Persian variety, is lighter and yellowish green. Key lime is more acidic, have a larger number of seeds and also have a more pronounced aroma than larger lime. These features cause key lime to be valued for their culinary contributions, especially their namesake, the key lime cake.
Key lime grows on a relatively thorny, bushy tree that maintains a relatively small height at a maturity of about 12 to 16 feet (4 to 5 m). Dwarf varieties of tree are also available for containers. The branches and trunk of the key lime tree assume somewhat bushes configuration with branches grow not only on the crown of the tree but also quite far after the trunk. The key lime leaves are oval and light green and the flowers are yellow-white with pale purple accents on the edges.
The key lime is highly sensitive to the cold and requires a large amount of direct sunlight. It is not picky about the soil, except that it requires good drainage. The key lime tree will bring fruit throughout the year under ideal conditions, but at the end of spring until the beginning of autumn is the most prolific.
It is assumed that key lime came from Southeast Asia, traveled through the Middle East in Sicily and Spain, and eventually to the New World through Western India and Florida Keys through Spain's explorers. From there, cultivation spread over suitable areas of North America.
Key lime is available fresh in stores all year round, and key lime juice can be purchased in bottles. Key lime is an excellent source of vitamin C and ZeusThey sew the taste of many foods, including chicken, fish, molluscs and other seafood. Key Lime Juice adds a bright cake remark for salad bandages, marinades, cocktails and fruit juices, and of course key lime plays in a renowned key lime cake.
When selecting key lime, look for smooth, spotless skin that are yellowish green without brown spots. Limits should have a good weight for their size. Key lime can be stored at room temperature for several days or kept in a plastic bag in the fridge for up to two weeks. For longer storage, press lime and freeze the juice in the ice cubes. Place the frozen cubes in re -plastic bags in the freezer.