Although lime and lemon appear to be the names of the same fruit, there is a difference that most people may not notice. Despite what most people believe, lime and lemon are really distinct from one another. They differ greatly in taste, texture, and shape, which is why chefs and food experts view them as two distinct entities that are essential to the modernization of cocktails and mocktails. To learn more about the differences between these two fruits, continue reading.
Physical Appearance
The appearance of lemons and limes may be among the most noticeable distinctions between them. Limes are normally a vivid shade of green, whereas lemons are frequently a bright yellow. The differentiation becomes slightly more challenging, though, because certain lime varieties will become yellow as they ripen. Lemons have a more oval or oblong shape than limes, which are also smaller and rounder.
Flavour
These two citrus fruits are comparable in flavour. They both have a sour flavour, so eating either fruit by itself will probably cause you to pucker your lips. However, limes are typically more bitter than lemons, whereas lemons normally have a touch of sweetness to them. Limes are comparatively sour than lemons.
pH Levels
Despite the fact that lime and lemon have similar levels of acidity, limes are demonstrated to be more acidic than lemons since their pH values are a little bit lower. Experts claim that the pH of lime juice is between 2.00 and 2.35, whereas the pH of lemon juice is between 2.00 and 2.60.
Storage
Experts advise keeping limes in the refrigerator for no longer than two weeks at a steady temperature of +4 degrees. While lemons can be kept for roughly two months either in or out of the refrigerator.
Culinary Uses
Both citrus fruits are used in similar methods when it comes to cuisine. Both are fantastic adds to marinades, sauces, salad dressings, drinks, and cocktails. The flavour profile of the food will probably influence the one you choose.
Since lemons are sweeter, they can be used more widely in both savoury and sweet dishes than limes, which are typically designated for savoury foods due to their greater bitterness.
However, in general, lemons rather than limes are more frequently used in sweet dishes. The bitter-sweet flavour balance needs to be kept in mind when using either of these two varieties of citrus fruit interchangeably in several cooking situations.
While both options are acceptable, depending on the food you are choosing, one may be preferable to the other.
Conclusion
Two common citrus fruits, lemons and limes, have several uses in food preparation, medicine, and daily life. Lemons are typically larger, oval-shaped, and brighter yellow than limes, which are small, round, and green.
They have nearly comparable nutritional profiles and many of the same possible health advantages. Both fruits are sour and acidic, however, lemons have a tendency to taste sweeter while limes taste more bitter.