Gondhoraj lebu, an important component in Bengali and Odia cuisine has rightly earned the title of the ‘king of aroma’ or ‘king of fragrance’. This delightful native lime adds a fresh burst of flavour 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 colour with a smooth rind and is slightly larger is size and elongated in shape. As one cuts into the fruit or grates its zest, one is overpowered by its aroma that needs to be experienced to be believed!
The lime has a curious mix of tanginess and slightly floral – citrusy notes that is perfect for local delicacies. In fact, this lime is even used in the preparation of several offerings to Bhagawan Jagannath.
Though the lime has lesser juice content as compared to other varieties, its versatility is unmatched and therefore, used in salads, chutneys, pickles, sweets and savoury snacks, beverages and as a garnish for pakhala and others.
One of the most popular summer drinks of 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 chillies, curry leaves and sometimes even ginger and the juice of Gondhoraj lebu and whisked till it becomes smooth and frothy.
The drink has intense flavours 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.
Written by Lakshmi Subramanian
sahasa.in 
Leave a comment