What the bloody hell is a finger lime?
As Finger Lime farmers, we’ve grown accustomed to the glazed expression people get when we tell them about our farm and what we do.
If you’ve ever wondered what on earth a Finger Lime is and why it’s causing such a buzz in the culinary and skincare worlds, you’re in for a tart and tangy treat!
What is a Finger Lime?
Well, it’s not your ordinary citrus fruit. Native to Australia, particularly the rainforests of Queensland and New South Wales, the Finger Lime (Citrus australasica) is a thorny understorey shrub that produces unique, elongated, finger-shaped fruit. Hence, the quirky name.
Appearance & Varieties
The flesh of the fruit is what makes Finger Limes so special. Their tiny, bead-like juice vesicles resemble caviar and contain a burst of tangy, citrusy flavour. Finger Limes come in an array of amazing colours, from green to yellow to red, and even purple.
Flavour Profile
So, what does a Finger Lime taste like? These little flavour bombs provide a vibrant burst of citrus flavour with hints of lemon, lime and grapefruit. It’s a delightful combination of tangy and tart, making it a versatile ingredient in both savoury and sweet dishes.
A Culinary Delight
Finger Limes have taken the culinary world by storm, finding their way into the kitchens of gourmet chefs and home cooks alike. Also known as ‘citrus caviar’, Finger Limes elevate a simple salad, seafood dish, cocktail or dessert to a whole new level of deliciousness. But it’s not just the wonderful flavour and beautiful colours that make the Finger Lime so great!
Bursting with Health Benefits
Indigenous Australians have used finger limes as a nutritional food source and for medicinal purposes for tens of thousands of years. Finger Limes contain three times more vitamin C than mandarins and they are exceptionally high in vitamin E. Both vitamins C and E are powerful antioxidants that protect our cells and boost our immune system. Indigenous Australians also used the pulp and juice of Finger Limes as an antiseptic for sores and boils.
The Finger Lime has adapted to withstand harsh Australian climatic conditions by producing and storing extraordinary quantities of potent phytonutrients. These compounds help the plant to grow, repair, hydrate, heal and protect itself against environmental damage and pests. For this reason, the Finger Lime has garnered significant attention from the cosmetic and nutraceutical industries.
An Australian Treasure
These petite, zesty delights are more than just a fruit. They’re a flavour explosion waiting to tantalise your taste buds and a natural wonder with a growing reputation in the skincare industry. Whether you’re a culinary adventurer or a skincare enthusiast, the Finger Lime is definitely a citrus sensation worth exploring.
Elevate your skincare ritual with our native Australian botanical skincare range.
