description Dried Lemon Myrtle Overview
Dried lemon myrtle consists of the dried leaves of Backhousia citriodora, an aromatic tree native to the subtropical rainforests of eastern Australia. Its strong lemon scent comes principally from citral, which is present at a high concentration in the leaf oil. The crushed or ground leaves are used in teas, spice mixtures, baked goods, sauces, marinades, and desserts, where they provide citrus aroma without adding lemon juice or acidity.
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Dried Lemon Myrtle ranks #73 of 231 in the Spice ranking, behind Ajwain, ahead of Dried Barberry.
help Dried Lemon Myrtle FAQ
What exactly is dried lemon myrtle?
Dried lemon myrtle consists of the dried leaves of the "Backhousia citriodora" tree, which is native to Australia. It is a popular culinary spice because it contains the highest recorded citral content of any plant in the world.
How does dried lemon myrtle compare to regular lemon juice or zest in cooking?
Dried lemon myrtle offers a much more intense, vibrant lemon flavor than actual lemons, and unlike citrus juice, it is not acidic. This means you can add huge lemon flavors to dairy-based dishes like cheesecakes or cream sauces without causing the milk to curdle.
Are there any health benefits associated with consuming lemon myrtle?
Lemon myrtle is incredibly rich in citral, which gives it strong antimicrobial and antifungal properties. It is also commonly brewed into a herbal tea in Australia to help relieve respiratory issues like coughs and colds.
How do you use dried lemon myrtle in recipes?
Because the flavor is incredibly potent, a little goes a long way; you typically only need a half teaspoon or less for an entire dish. It works beautifully in both sweet applications like lemon shortbread and savory dishes like roast chicken or fish marinades.
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