Ground Makrut Lime Leaves have a flamboyant perfume; bold and intoxicating, rife with the smell of lime and lemon, with an undercurrent of jasmine tea. The exposed surface area of the ground leaves allows bitter lime, a hallmark of the makrut fruit, to come through, before giving way to the beautifully citric flavors that fade to florals that linger at the roof of the mouth. Ground Makrut Lime Leaves have a high essential oil content, clocking in at approximately 80% essential oil by weight, which is what powers its voluptuous flavor and aroma.

While the leaves are greatly in demand for their flavor, the makrut lime is not often used for cooking. The rind has a high essential oil content and is also quite flavorful, but you have to be careful when zesting not to dig too deeply and get the pith, because that is far too bitter to enjoy. Juice from the makrut lime is considered too tart for most (but not all!) dishes, and is primarily used as a household cleaner. Think of it much like vinegar in the US, only with a better smell. The juice is added to shampoos and ointments, and extract from the leaves prevents the growth of the pathogen that attacks teeth and causes cavities. If you're an advocate of aromatherapy, the odor of makrut limes is believed to help clear one's head, allowing practitioners to reduce stress and open the door to a more centered perspective.

Tips From Our Kitchen

Ground Makrut Lime retains its flavor during cooking so it can be added early in the cooking process. Use these to create a fragrant layer of flavor for Asian-inspired coconut soup or traditional Thai hot and sour soup. Add to stir-fries and Thai curries. Dust over scallops just before searing, or add to steaming liquid for mussels. Make compound butter with Ground Makrut Lime Leaves and use to top baked sweet potatoes or roasted asparagus. Stir into glaze for a sweet new take on pound cake or add to sugar and create a standout rim for gin gimlets. Toss with toasted peanuts or cashews.

Use Ground Makrut Lime Leaves judiciously at first. They will continue to add flavor once they’re mixed in, so they can easily overpower a dish.

Our Makrut Lime Leaves are grown in Thailand.

This product is certified kosher.

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