A single serving of limequat contains around 20 calories. Limequat is a hybrid citrus fruit, a cross between a kumquat and a lime. It's small, round, and orange-yellow in color. The fruit has a tart-sweet flavor and is often used for culinary purposes.
Limequat is a good source of vitamin C, fiber, and potassium. A single fruit contains about 30% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin C.
In this article, we'll discuss the nutritional information and health benefits of limequat, cooking and recipe ideas, storage tips, and where to buy them.
What is a Limequat?
Limequat is a citrus fruit that is a cross between a kumquat and a lime. It's small and round, about the size of a golf ball. The fruit has a thin edible skin and juicy flesh. It's typically in season from November through June. The fruit is commonly used in cocktail and mocktail drinks, as well as marinades and dressings. It can also be used in desserts and savory dishes. The fruit originated in Japan in the early 1900s and has since been cultivated in other parts of the world, including the United States, Spain, and Israel.
One limequat fruit contains approximately 20 calories, 5 grams of carbohydrates, and 2 grams of fiber. It also contains 30% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin C and 2% of your daily recommended intake of potassium. Limequat is a good source of polyphenolic compounds, which have antioxidant properties. These compounds can help reduce inflammation and protect against chronic diseases. The fruit is low in sugar and has a low glycemic load, making it a good option for people with diabetes or those watching their sugar intake.
Limequat Health Benefits
Limequat has several health benefits due to its high vitamin C and fiber content. These include improved immune function, digestion, and heart health. The fruit's polyphenolic compounds also help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which are linked to several chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer's. Limequat is also rich in potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and support nerve and muscle function.
How to Use Limequat in Cooking
Limequat's unique flavor makes it a versatile ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes. Try adding limequat juice or zest to marinades, dressings, and sauces. In desserts, limequat pairs well with flavors like vanilla and coconut. Use the fruit's juice or chopped pieces in cakes, pies, and tarts. For savory dishes, limequat makes a great addition to seafood dishes, stir-fries, and roasted vegetables. You can also use it to add a tart kick to chili or spicy soups.
Limequat Recipes for Beverages
Limequat Ginger Cooler: Muddle limequat slices, ginger, and honey into a glass. Add ice and sparkling water. Limequat Margarita: Mix limequat juice, tequila, and triple sec in a shaker. Serve over ice with a salt rimmed glass. Limequat Mojito: Muddle limequat slices, mint leaves, and sugar in a glass. Add rum, lime juice, and ice. Top with soda water.
Limequat Recipes for Sweets
Limequat Bars: Combine flour, sugar, and butter to create a crust. Bake for 15 minutes. Mix eggs, limequat juice, and powdered sugar to create a filling. Pour over crust and bake for another 20-25 minutes. Limequat Coconut Cake: Mix sugar and eggs until creamy. Add coconut milk, limequat zest, and flour. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Serve with whipped cream and limequat slices. Limequat Cheesecake: Mix cream cheese, sugar, and limequat juice. Add eggs and vanilla extract. Pour mixture over graham cracker crust and bake for 50-60 minutes. Chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours.
Limequat Recipes for Savory Dishes
Limequat Cilantro Shrimp: Marinate shrimp in limequat juice, garlic, cilantro, and olive oil for 30 minutes. Grill or sauté. Limequat Stir-Fry: Sauté bell peppers, onions, and chicken in a pan. Add limequat juice, soy sauce, and honey. Serve over rice. Limequat Roasted Vegetables: Toss vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and Brussels sprouts in olive oil, limequat zest, and garlic. Roast in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes.
How to Store Limequat
Limequat can be stored at room temperature for 2-3 days. For longer storage, keep the fruit in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze limequat juice or zest in ice cube trays for use in cooking or beverages. To prevent spoilage, make sure to discard any fruit that shows signs of mold, fungus, or rot.
Where to Buy Limequat
Limequat is not as widely available as other citrus fruits but can be found at specialty grocery stores or online. You can also try growing your own limequat tree if you live in a warm climate. The trees are relatively easy to care for and produce fruit around November.
Limequat vs. Other Citrus Fruits
Limequat has a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from other citrus fruits like lemons, limes, and oranges. Compared to other fruits, limequat is relatively low in sugar and has a lower glycemic index, making it a good choice for people with diabetes. Limequat is also a good source of vitamin C and fiber, two nutrients that are important for overall health and wellness.
When life gives you limequats, make limequat margaritas.
FAQs about Limequat
1. What is a Limequat?
A Limequat is a small citrus fruit that is a cross between a lime and a kumquat. It is about the size of a golf ball and has a thin, light-green to yellowish-green skin.
2. What does a Limequat taste like?
Limequats have a tart and tangy flavor, similar to a lime, with a slightly sweet aftertaste. The skin also has a slightly bitter taste, but it can be eaten as well.
3. How is a Limequat typically used?
Limequats can be used in a variety of ways, such as in cocktails, marinades, dressings, sauces, and desserts. They can also be sliced and used as a garnish or eaten whole as a snack.
4. Are Limequats nutritious?
Yes, Limequats are a good source of Vitamin C and fiber. One serving of Limequat (about 2-3 fruits) contains approximately 20 calories, making it a low-calorie snack option.
5. Where can I find Limequats?
Limequats are typically in season from December to March and can be found in specialty grocery stores, farmers markets, and online. They can also be grown at home in warm and humid climates.