This fragrance is all thanks to the king of aromas, Gondhoraj—a reclusive member of the lime family and a distant cousin of Kaffir lime—known for its esoteric ability to push people into a paroxysm of happy memories. Often mistaken for its more popular cousin, Kaffir lime, Gondhoraj likes to rule from behind the curtains. Without an English name or a dedicated Wikipedia profile, this bright green oblong lime, also known as the Rangpur lime, originates in Sylhet and the picturesque hills of Chittagong, Bangladesh.
While in our backyard in Kolkata, its plant grows generously, bearing white flowers in plenty along with the oblong fruits hanging from soft shoots; Attempts to grow the plant from its seeds in Bengaluru and elsewhere have been futile. Gondhoraj lebu, an important component in Bengali and Odia cuisine, has rightly earned the title of ‘king of aroma'or ‘king of fragrance’. This delightful native lime adds a fresh burst of flavor to any dish or drink with its distinctive aroma. This indigenous lime is grown extensively in West Bengal and Odisha and has an attractive bright green color with a smooth rind. It is slightly larger in size and elongated in shape. As one cuts into the fruit or grates its zest, one is overpowered by its aroma, which needs to be experienced to be believed!
The lime has a curious mix of tanginess and slightly floral-citrusy notes that are perfect for local delicacies. In fact, this lime is even used in the preparation of several offerings to Bhagawan Jagannath. Though the lime has a lesser juice content as compared to other varieties, its versatility is unmatched, and it is therefore, used in salads, chutneys, pickles, sweet and savory snacks, beverages, and as a garnish for pakhala and others. One of the most popular summer drinks in Bengal and Odisha is Gondhoraj Ghol, a delicious improvised buttermilk–based drink. Thick curd or fresh buttermilk is mixed with water and salt and spices like roasted cumin powder, fresh green chilies, curry leaves, and sometimes even ginger, and whisked till it becomes smooth and frothy.
The drink has intense flavors ranging from tangy to citrusy to mildly spicy to refreshing and is ideal to beat the summer heat. Gondhoraj lebu is used in traditional medicine to treat cardiac ailments, high blood pressure, and diabetes, inhibit the growth of cancerous cells, promote blood circulation, strengthen bones, and facilitate weight loss.
Here are Five surprising health benefits of Queen Pineapples
- Helps in Weight Loss
- Treat colds and cough
- Helps in Digestion
- Help to Reduce Cancer Risk
- Good For Teeth
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