Meyer Lemons - The golden fruit of the citrus world + recipe

Meyer Lemons - A touch of sunshine on your plate

The Meyer lemon is more than just a fruit. It's a symbiosis of the classic lemon and the mandarin orange, offering an astonishing range of flavors and aromas. Originally from China, the Meyer lemon has found its way into the hearts of chefs, gardeners, and gourmets worldwide. But what makes this particular citrus fruit so special? Let's delve into the fascinating world of the Meyer lemon.

Origin and history

The Meyer lemon (Citrus × meyeri) was first introduced to the United States from China in the early 20th century by Frank Meyer, an American plant explorer. The fruit is the result of a natural cross between a common lemon (Citrus limon) and a mandarin orange or orange (Citrus reticulata). Its name honors the discoverer, whose work helped popularize this unique fruit in Western cultures.

Although the Meyer lemon was originally prized as a decorative tree, it quickly gained recognition in the culinary world. Its popularity grew particularly in the 1970s, when celebrity chefs such as Alice Waters and Martha Stewart began using it in recipes.

Special features of the Meyer lemon

The Meyer lemon differs from a conventional lemon in many ways:

1. Flavor and aroma : A culinary delight. Particularly aromatic and mild. This less acidic lemon variety with a pleasantly thin peel is a cross between a regular lemon and a tangerine. This makes the fruit softer and more yielding than regular lemons. When ripe, the peel, when grated, smells of thyme. This is what truly sets this gourmet lemon apart.

2. Appearance : The Meyer lemon's peel is thinner, smoother, and more pliable than regular lemons. The color: bright yellow with a hint of orange. In truly ripe fruits, the yellow is as intense and sunny as one might imagine the color of our solar plexus chakra.

   

3. Juice content : Compared to regular lemons, the Meyer lemon has a higher juice content, making it perfect for making dressings, marinades or drinks.

4. Cultivation and Care : Meyer lemon trees are relatively small, making them ideal for growing in pots. They can be cultivated both indoors and outdoors as long as they receive adequate sunlight.

Use in the kitchen

The Meyer lemon is a true all-rounder in the kitchen. Here are some inspiring ideas for using this fruit:

1. Baking : Their sweet taste and intense aroma make them perfect for desserts like lemon tarts, cookies, or cakes. A classic is Meyer Lemon Cream, served on scones or as a filling for tarts.

2. Drinks : Its juice is perfect for lemonades, cocktails, and hot tea. A Meyer lemon margarita or a refreshing lemonade are special highlights on warm days.

3. Savory dishes : It can be used in sauces for fish and poultry dishes. Risottos and pasta also benefit from its subtle acidity and unique flavor.

4. Jam and marmalade : The combination of pulp and peel makes a delicate jam that is delicious on bread or as a filling for baked goods.

5. Fermentation and pickling : Pickled Meyer lemons are a specialty in North African and Central Moravian cuisine. They add a special flavor to dishes like tagine.

6. Exotic combinations : The sweet acidity of the Meyer lemon blends beautifully with exotic spices like ginger, cardamom, and vanilla. It also reveals its versatility when paired with other fruits like raspberries or pomegranates.

Meyer lemons in the garden

Growing a Meyer lemon tree is easier than you think. With the right conditions, even beginners can enjoy a bountiful harvest:

• Location : Meyer lemons love sun. A sunny spot in the garden or a bright window in the house is ideal.

• Soil and Watering : The soil should be well-drained and slightly acidic. Regular watering is important, but waterlogging should not occur.

• Temperature : Although the Meyer lemon is somewhat cold-tolerant than other citrus trees, it should be protected from frost. It can overwinter indoors.

• Care : Regular fertilization with a special citrus fertilizer promotes growth and fruit formation.

Cultural significance of the Meyer lemon

In China, the Meyer lemon enjoys special symbolism. It represents good luck and prosperity and is often given as a gift. Its bright color and fresh aroma make it a symbol of joie de vivre and optimism. This cultural significance has contributed to its use in many traditional recipes and rituals.

Recipe: Meyer Lemon Tart

Ingredients:

For the dough:

• 200 g flour

• 100 g cold butter (in pieces)

• 50 g sugar

• 1 egg yolk

• 2 tablespoons cold water

For the filling:

• 3 Meyer lemons (juice and peel)

• 150 g sugar

• 3 eggs

• 150 ml cream

Preparation:

1. Prepare the dough: Combine flour, butter, and sugar in a bowl until crumbly. Add egg yolk and water and knead into a smooth dough. Wrap the dough in cling film and let it rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

2. Bake the dough: Roll out the dough and place it in a greased tart tin. Prick the base several times with a fork, cover with baking paper, and weigh down with baking beans. Blind bake at 180°C (top/bottom heat) for 15 minutes. Remove the baking paper and beans and bake for another 10 minutes.

3. Prepare the filling: Combine Meyer lemon juice and zest with sugar, eggs, and cream in a bowl. Pour the mixture onto the pre-baked crust.

4. Bake the tart: Bake the tart at 160°C for about 25-30 minutes, until the filling is firm. Let cool and serve.

Conclusion

The Meyer lemon is a fascinating fruit that combines flavor, versatility, and aesthetics. Whether in the kitchen, in the garden, or as a decorative element, it offers countless possibilities to enrich everyday life. With its unique profile, it has rightfully earned a place for itself in the citrus world.

If you haven't tried the Meyer lemon yet, now's the perfect time to incorporate it into your daily routine. Whether you're an experienced cook or a home gardener, the Meyer lemon is sure to delight you!

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