Gondhoraj lemon, an aromatic citrus delight from West Bengal, is a beloved ingredient in Bengali kitchens. Known for its unique fragrance and flavour, this lime, often called "King Lime," has gained immense popularity not only among Bengali foodies but also in non-Bengali kitchens and five-star restaurants. Its versatility has inspired chefs to experiment and create a variety of dishes, enhancing the culinary experience with its refreshing and zesty profile. The essence of Gondhoraj lemon elevates the simplest of dishes into something extraordinary, making it an essential ingredient in the culinary repertoire.
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Experimenting with Gondhoraj lemon has become popular as both chefs and home cooks look for ways to use it to make simple recipes taste even better. Since it has a nice smell and a mild sour taste, it can be used to marinate meats, season soups, and bake.
Here are seven delightful dishes that highlight the magic of Gondhoraj lemon. These recipes, ranging from chicken fry to cookies, demonstrate the lemon's ability to enhance flavours and create memorable dining experiences.
7 Dishes You Can Prepare With Gondhoraj Lemon
1. Gondhoraj Chicken Fry
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Gondhoraj Chicken Fry is a crispy and aromatic dish that showcases lemon zest and juice. To prepare, marinate 600 grams of boneless chicken with ginger-garlic paste, green chilli paste, salt, lemon juice, and pepper powder. After two hours, dip the marinated chicken in a batter made of eggs, flour, and cornflour, then fry until golden brown. Serve with kasundi for an irresistible treat.
2. Gondhoraj Chingri
Gondhoraj Chingri, or Golda Chingri with Gondhoraj Lebu, features giant river prawns in a creamy, tangy sauce. Marinate prawns with lemon juice, salt, and white pepper. Cook them briefly in mustard oil, then prepare a gravy with onion, ginger, garlic, coconut milk, and more lemon juice. Simmer the prawns in this luscious sauce and serve with steamed rice for a sumptuous meal.
3. Gondhoraj Mutton
Gondhoraj Mutton is a fragrant and flavourful dish that combines marinated mutton with a blend of spices and Gondhoraj lime. Marinate the mutton with yoghurt, garlic paste, ginger paste, lemon juice, and green chilli paste. Fry whole spices and onions in mustard oil, add the marinated mutton, and cook until tender. Finish with lemon zest and juice, and it's time to serve with steamed rice for a comforting meal.
4. Gondhoraj Lebu Ilish
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Gondhoraj Lebu Ilish is a traditional Bengali fish dish enhanced by lemon's unique aroma. Marinate ilish fish with a paste of mustard seeds, poppy seeds, grated coconut, and spices. Cook the fish in mustard oil, then add fresh cream and lemon juice. Garnish with lemon leaves for a fragrant and delicious dish served with steamed rice.
5. Gondhoraj Cookies
Gondhoraj Cookies are a delightful twist on traditional butter cookies infused with the zest of Gondhoraj lemon. Prepare a dough with all-purpose flour, butter, sugar, and lemon zest. Chill, slice, and bake the dough to create aromatic and delicious cookies. These cookies make a perfect snack or gift, with the mindboggling essence of Gondhoraj lemon in every bite.
6. Gondhoraj Mishti Doi
Gondhoraj Mishti Doi is a no-cook, no-bake Bengali dessert infused with lemon zest and juice. Mix yoghurt, condensed milk, and milk powder, then add lemon juice and zest. Pour the mixture into serving bowls, garnish with lemon zest and leaves, and chill. This creamy and fragrant dessert offers a refreshing twist on the classic Mishti Doi.
7. Gondhoraj Momo
Gondhoraj Momo is a fusion snack that combines the lemon's zest with traditional Tibetan dumplings. Prepare a dough with flour, water, lemon juice, and oil. Fill with a mixture of chicken or vegetables, black pepper, soy sauce, and lemon zest. Steam the momos until translucent and serve hot with spicy chutney. The lemon's fragrance adds a delightful twist to this popular snack.