The limequat is a small citrus fruit resulting from a cross between a lime and a kumquat. Although it's actually over a century old, it's considered a "new citrus fruit" because its marketing was niche for so many years, especially in the U.S.. From a nutritional standpoint, the limequat is a true powerhouse of health, perhaps this is why it's enjoying such success, especially on social media, where we see various influencers savoring this unique product. Its name comes from its most unusual characteristic: it can be eaten whole, peel included, just like a snack.
What is The Limequat?
The limequat is a hybrid between a lime and a kumquat. This combination gives it distinctive characteristics that make it ideal for eating whole, peel included. It's not as new as we think, having actually been developed by botanist Walter Swingle in the early 1900s. It measures about 5-6 centimeters in length and features a thin, edible peel enclosing a juicy pulp. The plant belongs to the Citrus genus, like lemons and mandarins, and grows vigorously in temperate climates.
This citrus fruit is rich in vitamin C (34.4 mg/100 g), antioxidants, and polyphenols, which help fight free radicals in the body. Furthermore, the peel contains limonene, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. The flavor of limequat is a combination of sweetness and acidity, similar to that of lemon but with a more delicate aftertaste, less tart than traditional lemons, making it ideal as a snack. The bitter note comes from the peel itself, but it is not invasive but complements the flavor profile, making it an interesting ingredient in the kitchen. It is very versatile, and while most people eat it as a snack, it is also ideal for enhancing other dishes. It is a pleasant garnish for main dishes, desserts, fruit salads, and cocktails. You can add limequat to salads for a citrus touch or you can add it to fish and white meat dishes. The citrus fruit can also be caramelized and used in desserts.
Where to Find Limequats
Since Swingle showed the world his new "creature," the world has welcomed it with great pleasure, with the exception of Italy, which, curiously, today produces one of the best and most prolific varieties, under the brand name "Lemonsnack." For the entire last century, limequats were grown in Great Britain, of course, but also in the United States, China, Israel, Spain, Malaysia, South Africa, Armenia, and Japan. They are still difficult to find in supermarkets, but there are numerous websites offering the possibility of purchasing them.
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