For everyone who likes to have exotic plants from distant countries in their own garden, calamansi, which is still relatively unknown in this country, is ideal. The citrus fruit is quite easy to care for and its juice tastes very aromatic.
What are calamansi fruits?
The Calamansi (or Kalamansi) is across between mandarin and kumquat In terms of taste, it has hints of mandarin and lemon, but also of orange and lime. Calamansi fruits are no larger than a ping pong ball and are mainly grown in the Philippines.
What other names does the calamansi fruit have?
The calamansi fruit, a naturally occurring hybrid, is also known asCalamondin orangeor for shortCalamondin. Especially in Italy, where it is already more widespread than here, it is sold under this name.
What vitamins and minerals does calamansi contain?
The Citrus fortunella, the botanical name of the calamondin orange, is a very good supplier ofVitamin C. The small fruits also contain a lot ofcalcium, phosphorusand alsoiron.
What color are calamansi fruits?
Since, as with all citrus fruits, there are always several generations on one tree, the color varies fromlime green specimenstobright orange at the ripe fruits.
What do calamansi fruits taste like?
The taste of calamansi cannot be described in one word. It tastessweet-sour, but less sour than lemons. It is characterized by a smalltart notein the aroma, which is very pleasant in combination with thetangerine taste. The edible peel is slightly bitter. In contrast to ornamental oranges, which are edible but are often perceived as very unpleasant in terms of taste, calamansi fruits are really tasty.
How is calamansi eaten?
The fruits taste wonderfully refreshing and can be used in different ways in the kitchen. Use the exotic for:
- Drinks: Dilute the freshly squeezed juice with water or pour sliced fruit into tea
- Desserts: Mousse, ice cream or fruit salad get a whole new flavor nuance
- Jam/Jelly: great for anyone who finds the acidity of eating raw to be too strong
In addition, calamansi fruits are also used in savory cuisine, for example for marinating or as an ingredient in salad dressings.
Can you grow calamansi fruits in Germany?
Calamansi fruits arewell suitedfor cultivating them in the garden in Germany. Many nurseries offer the plants for sale - new plants are usually available from early spring. Pay attention to the following things when growing and caring for calamansi:
- Full sunny location
- Only water when the soil is dry
- Provide with mineral fertilizer
- Don’t cut back drastically
- Place in a cool, bright room in winter as the plant is not hardy.
Tip
Dose carefully
Especially if you are new to the taste of calamansi, you should use the juice sparingly. Even a small amount gives everything an exotic taste with a pleasantly refreshing acidity. If you like, you can increase the dose later, but you should make sure that it doesn't get too acidic.
