
Citrus Leaf
Citrus leaves, often glossy and deep green, are aromatic leaves harvested from various citrus trees like lemon, lime, and orange. Their flavor is a complex blend of the underlying citrus fruit with subtle herbal and slightly bitter notes. The texture of a fresh citrus leaf is firm and waxy. Primarily used for their fragrant essential oils rather than direct consumption, citrus leaves impart a unique citrusy and herbaceous aroma to dishes. Find fresh or dried citrus leaves to elevate your culinary creations.
Common Uses
- Infuse oils and vinegars with citrus aroma: Citrus leaves can be steeped in oil or vinegar to create flavorful infusions, perfect for salad dressings or marinades that carry a distinct citrus note.
- Flavor soups and stews: Add citrus leaves to soups, stews, and broths during cooking to impart a delicate citrusy and herbal fragrance to the broth.
- Wrap and steam fish or meats: Use citrus leaves as wrappers for grilling or steaming fish or meat. The leaves infuse the food with their aroma and help to keep it moist.
- Enhance desserts and beverages: A few citrus leaves can be added to custards, ice creams, or infused in simple syrups to create refreshing and aromatic desserts or cocktails.
- Add fragrance to rice dishes: Add a few citrus leaves to the cooking liquid while preparing rice to infuse it with a subtle citrus scent.
- Use in teas: Citrus leaves make a refreshing herbal tea. Simply steep fresh or dried leaves in hot water for a flavorful and aromatic beverage.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
0.0kcal
Protein
0.0g
Carbs
0.0g
Sugars
0.0g
Healthy Fat
0.0g
Unhealthy Fat
0.0g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
0.0kcal
Protein
0.0g
Carbs
0.0g
Sugars
0.0g
Healthy Fat
0.0g
Unhealthy Fat
0.0g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Health Benefits
- May offer antioxidant protection due to flavonoid content.
- Some varieties may possess anti-inflammatory properties.
- Traditionally used to support digestive health.
- Contains trace amounts of vitamins and minerals.
- Aromatherapy benefits; the scent may help reduce stress and anxiety.
- May contribute to overall wellness through its aromatic compounds.
Substitutes
Storage Tips
Citrus leaves are best used fresh for the most potent flavor. To store, wrap them in a slightly damp paper towel and place them in a plastic bag or airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help keep them fresh for up to a week. You can also freeze citrus leaves for longer storage; blanch them briefly in boiling water before freezing to preserve their color and flavor.
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