Buddha’s Hand fruit is one of the most fascinating and unusual citrus fruits you’ll ever encounter. With its bright yellow color and finger-like segments resembling a praying hand, it’s as much a conversation piece as it is a flavorful ingredient. But how do you eat Buddha’s Hand fruit? Unlike typical citrus fruits, it’s not juicy or pulpy, so its culinary uses might surprise you.
Let’s explore how to enjoy this exotic fruit in simple, delicious ways.
What Is Buddha’s Hand Fruit?
Buddha’s Hand (Citrus medica var. sarcodactylis) is a citron variety native to China and India. It looks like a cluster of elongated fingers extending outward, which is why it’s called Buddha’s Hand. This fruit contains almost no pulp or juice, and its white pith is thick but not bitter, unlike many other citrus fruits. The real treasure lies in its fragrant, zest-filled rind, which offers a sweet, floral, and intensely citrus aroma.
How to Eat Buddha’s Hand Fruit
1. Use the Zest
The primary way to enjoy Buddha’s Hand is by using its zest. The outer yellow skin is packed with aromatic oils that can brighten up many dishes. Here’s how:
– Grate or zest the peel carefully with a microplane or fine grater, avoiding the white pith underneath to prevent bitterness.
– Sprinkle the zest over salads, steamed vegetables, or fish dishes to add a fresh citrus note.
– Incorporate the zest into baked goods like muffins, cakes, and cookies for a fragrant twist.
– Add zest to marinades, dressings, and cocktails for an aromatic boost.
2. Slice and Eat Raw
Though Buddha’s Hand has no juicy segments, you can slice the thin “fingers” into thin pieces and eat them raw. The pith is sweet and floral, so it’s not bitter like a lemon’s pith. Thin slices can also be tossed into salads or used as a garnish for savory dishes.
3. Candy the Fruit
Candied Buddha’s Hand is a popular treat. The fruit’s lack of bitterness makes it perfect for candying:
– Slice the fingers into strips.
– Boil them briefly, discarding the water to remove any residual bitterness.
– Simmer the strips in sugar syrup until translucent.
– Let them dry and enjoy as a sweet snack or use as a garnish for desserts and cocktails.
4. Infuse in Liquor or Sugar
Buddha’s Hand zest can be infused in alcohol to create aromatic liqueurs similar to limoncello, sometimes called “Buddhacello.” You can also infuse sugar or salt with the zest to add citrus flavor to your cooking and baking.
5. Make Tea or Use in Cooking
You can brew thin slices or zest of Buddha’s Hand as a fragrant tea, often sweetened with honey. It also works well grated into savory dishes like roasted vegetables, tofu, or fish, adding a subtle citrus aroma without sourness.
6. Use as a Natural Air Freshener
Besides eating, Buddha’s Hand is prized for its fragrance. Simply slicing or zesting the fruit releases a fresh lemony scent that can brighten a room. Some people even place whole fruits on tables as natural air fresheners or use slices in baths for an aromatic soak.
Tips for Preparing Buddha’s Hand Fruit
– Choose a fresh fruit: Look for firm, heavy fruit with vibrant yellow color.
– Wash thoroughly: Rinse under cool water and dry before zesting or slicing.
– Avoid the pith when zesting: The white pith is thick but mild; however, to keep zest from being bitter, try to grate only the yellow outer layer.
– Store excess zest: Keep leftover zest in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze it for longer storage.
Health Benefits and Traditional Uses
Buddha’s Hand has been used in traditional medicine to relieve pain, soothe digestion, clear lungs, and boost immunity. It’s also considered a symbol of happiness, longevity, and good fortune in many Asian cultures, often given as a gift or used in religious offerings.
Summary
Eating Buddha’s Hand fruit is less about biting into juicy segments and more about savoring its fragrant zest and unique flavor. Whether grated into dishes, candied for a sweet treat, infused into drinks, or enjoyed as a fragrant garnish, this exotic citrus offers many delightful culinary possibilities.
Enjoy experimenting with Buddha’s Hand and add a touch of aromatic elegance to your kitchen!
Buddha’s Hand is a versatile fruit that transforms dishes with its fragrant zest, making it a unique and enjoyable addition to your culinary adventures.