Kaffir Lime

Makrut limes, botanically classified as Citrus hystrix, are a fragrant Southeast Asian species belonging to the Rutaceae or Citrus family. The small, distinctly wrinkled fruits develop on evergreen trees reaching 2 to 10 meters in height and are an ancient, hardy species foraged for use in culinary, medicinal, and cultural practices. The species is also cultivated for its fragrant leaves. Makrut limes are known by several names worldwide, including Kaffir lime, Thai lime, Caffre lime, and Mauritius papeda. It is important to note that the species is often sold under the kaffir moniker in retail markets, but this name is considered controversial among some communities. Historians believe kaffir was selected and given to the fruits after a people group of the same name in Sri Lanka. In other regions of the world, kaffir is derived from the Arabic word “kafara,” meaning “infidel.” This word is an offensive and derogatory term, and due to this, the species is now referred to as Makrut. Throughout history, Makrut limes have been a treasured species in Asia and have expanded in cultivation worldwide. The leaves are the portion of the tree that is most used for culinary use, followed by the zest and juice of the fruits.