Buddha’s Hand
This is a real citrus fruit whose origins are believed to be that Buddhist monks carried them from India to China. This is my first crop from my little tree! They grow well in the desert or coastal Southern California.
It is a symbol of happiness, wealth and longevity and it is very popular at New Year’s as it is believed to bring good fortune to the household. See why I planted an entire tree!
Culinary wise the fruit is all pith and its rind is used for citrus flavoring from sautés to marmalades. The flavor of the rind is different from a straight lemon. This curly lemon has more jasmine and tangerine overtones. Nice! That’s why they are often placed in homes in China and Japan as the aroma they send off is brilliant.
I’m dying to try a little finger minced in a sauce but the thought pains me, I think I may enjoy it as an object d’art for a while longer.
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