What is kaffir lime leaves

The Kaffir* lime tree (Citrus hystrix), also known as makrut lime, is commonly grown for use in Asian cuisine. While this dwarf citrus tree, reaching up to 5 feet (1.5 m.) tall, can be grown outdoors (year-round in USDA zones 9-10), it is best suited for indoors. The Kaffir lime tree thrives in potted environments and would benefit from placement out on the patio or deck, however, its container needs to provide adequate drainage.

Kaffir Lime Leaves

The glossy, dark green leaves of the Kaffir lime tree are quite distinctive. Kaffir lime leaves look like two leaves joined together, as one appears to grow from the tip of the other. Kaffir lime leaves are most often used as an essential ingredient for flavoring many Asian dishes such as soups, curries, and fish.

They can be used fresh off the tree or from dried leaves. Kaffir lime leaves can also be frozen to retain their freshness. Picking the leaves every few weeks may help encourage growth. Crushing Kaffir lime leaves will release their fragrant oils, which emit an intense citrus aroma.

About Kaffir Limes

Kaffir limes are about the size of Western limes. They are dark green with a bumpy surface. In order for the Kaffir lime tree to produce any limes, be sure to provide plenty of light for flowering.

Since they produce very little juice, the juice and flesh of Kaffir limes is rarely used, but the sour-tasting rind can be finely grated and used for flavoring dishes. Fresh Kaffir limes can be frozen using freezer bags and used as needed.

Kaffir limes have many household uses as well, including cleaning and hair conditioning.

Kaffir lime trees are generally not bothered by many pest problems but may become susceptible to mites or scale if left near infected plants.

Although it is possible to grow Kaffir lime trees from seed, this method is often difficult to achieve. Likewise, grafted trees tend to bloom and bear fruit earlier than seedlings.

Kaffir Lime Tree Care

Despite the fact that Kaffir lime trees are tolerant of less than ideal conditions, there are specific needs that should be met for optimal growth.

Kaffir limes prefer full sun in moist, well-drained soil. If grown indoors, keep near a sunny window. The Kaffir lime tree appreciates water and somewhat humid conditions during the growing season. Keep in mind, however, that this tree is prone to root rot if kept too wet, so allow the soil to dry out some between waterings. Regular misting helps with humidity levels.

Kaffir lime trees are cold sensitive and need to be protected from frost. Therefore, these plants should be brought indoors during winter if they are grown outside. They enjoy indoor temperatures around 60 degrees F. (16 C.) or above, especially during winter months.

Prune the lime tree while young to encourage branching and a more bushy plant.

*NOTE: The word “kafir” was originally used to refer to non-Muslims, but was later adopted by white colonialists to describe people of color or slaves. It is because of this, “Kaffir” is deemed in some regions as a derogatory and insulting term. It is important to note, however, that its reference in this article is NOT intended to offend anyone but is simply referencing the Kaffir lime tree for which it is commonly known in North America.

Kaffir lime and kaffir lime leaves are important ingredients in Thai cooking. The fruit of the herbs is equally crucial in many Thai dishes especially in making traditional curry pastes. This post will talk about kaffir lime leaves and substitutes for them if you can’t find them for your cooking.

What are kaffir lime leaves?

Kaffir lime leaves, known as Bai Makrut in Thai, are a leafy citrus herb commonly used in Thai cooking. They have a very distinctive flavor and fragrance that is unique and difficult to replicate. They have a strong citrusy aroma similar to the smell of the lime zest. The leaves have a tinge of peppery taste and a slightly bitter and semi-tart flavor. It’s a unique, bold taste that makes it a refreshing tropical herb. 

Can you use the limes of the kaffir?

Yes! In fact, the rind of the limes is used to make traditional Thai curry pastes. They are not as commonly found as the leaves outside of Thailand but it’s a prize to have fresh kaffir limes even in my local Asian markets. The fruit of the lime is visibly bumpy skin about the size of large key limes. See the image below for the knobby-looking skin of the kaffir limes.

Only the rind of the limes is used, not the pith, the white part underneath the skin of the limes. The pith is very bitter and will ruin your dish if you end up with too much of it while peeling or grating your kaffir lime rind. Typically, there’s not much juice from the limes, so don’t count on using it for your cooking. If you come across a bunch of kaffir limes, snag a few, grate the rind and freeze in a small zip lock bag for future uses. Try to substitute it your baking, in place of your typical lemon, limes, or key lime rind. It has a stronger flavor, so use just slightly less than what the recipe calls for. 

How do you use kaffir lime leaves?

Depending on what you are making, the lime leaves are cut differently for each dish. In stir-fries, salads, and sauces, the leaves are chopped, sliced, or julienned very thinly for cooking to prevent the flavor from overpowering each bite. For curries, the lime leaves and lime rind are cut small enough to use for pounding into a fine paste. For soups, the leaves are roughly torn or used whole so the diners can remove the leaves before eating. 

Can you eat the leaves?

Absolutely. The lime leaves are what's kaffir limes are most famous for. The limes however are a tiny bit more difficult to find. You can eat raw kaffir lime leaves, finely chopped usually, in salads, sauces, and stir-fries. 

Where to buy kaffir lime leaves?

Kaffir lime leaves are typically available to purchase at your local Asian markets. They are sold fresh or frozen. Check with the clerks if you are having a hard time identifying them. You can also buy fresh leaves online on Amazon.  (Affiliate)

Substitute For Kaffir lime leaves 

Kaffir lime leaves and rind are hard to find substitutes for. I’ve seen a lot of creative attempts at trying to replicate the flavor and fragrance of the herbs. I’m skeptical and will only recommend one substitute. Try using the rind of limes found in your local grocery stores. Use key-limes if you have them. That’s about it for my kaffir lime substitution. 

Can I freeze fresh lime leaves and limes?

Yes. You can absolutely freeze kaffir lime leaves. You can also freeze the grated rind of the kaffir limes for later use. I have a few frozen whole kaffir limes in my freezer. Beware that the whole limes will turn brown. Thaw them out slightly then use a sharp knife to thinly slice off the peel. Frozen leaves and lime rind keep for several months in the freezer in air-tight storage bags.

Recipes using Kaffir lime leaves:

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