5 Gondhiraj Lebu Recipes That Bring Bengali Flavours To Life

If you’re a Bengali, you must have experienced the beautiful aroma of Gondhoraj lemon. Also known as the ‘king of lemons,’ gondhoraj lemon is a citrus fruit hailing from West Bengal. The lemon is popular for its distinct and refreshing scent and flavour that is widely cherished in Bengali cuisine. However, you can prepare a whole lot of dishes with gondhoraj lemon beyond the Bengali cuisine. From savoury dishes to desserts, gondhoraj lemon adds a refreshing touch to all the recipes you make. This lemon elevates culinary creation with its zesty nature and subtle sweetness. Often, you’ll find markets in and around Bengal, selling gondhoraj lebu in batches along with the traditional lemon. This lemon has a thick, bumpy skin that exudes a potent aroma. Here are 5 Bengali recipes made of gondhoraj lemon that you should be trying at home:

Gondhoraj Ghol

As the name suggests, it can be the perfect drink to start your meal. It requires one gondhoraj lemon juice, curd, water, sugar and black salt. Whisk the curd briskly and slowly keep adding the water to thin its consistency once it turns smooth. The flavours of this refresh the mind and body at the same time. This beverage originates from the streets of Kolkata, where fresh buttermilk, spices, and herbs are combined with the irresistible smell and whiff of gondhoraj lebu.

Also Read: Growing Kaffir Lime Leaves At Home: Essential Tips To Keep In Mind

Gondhoraj Fried Chicken

Gondhoraj fried chicken is a crispy and aromatic dish that showcases the lemon zest and juice. All you need is around 300-500 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. You can serve this at parties, weddings or just when you feel like having a snack!

Image Credit: Pexels

Gondhoraj Mutton

A Sunday mutton feast in Bengali homes is a no-brainer. It’s like a ritual. But when there’s an ingredient like gondhoraj lebu in the kitchen, the mutton kosha takes a backseat, and gondhoraj mutton shines as the centrepiece of it all. 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 on top. Serve it with basanti pulao or steamed rice. 

Gondhoraj Cookies

Gondhoraj cookies are a delightful twist on traditional butter cookies infused with the zest of gondhoraj lemon. 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.  Home-made things always have a more personal and decadent touch than store-bought things. Of course, it is easier to buy everything from the market and simply serve it, but it just doesn't taste as good as the food made at home. 

Image Credit: Gondhoraj Cookie

Gondhoraj Pickle

If you’re fond of pickles, then you must try gondhoraj lemon pickle. This pickle provides you with a burst of tangy goodness that can spice up any meal. Add the sun-dried gondhoraj lemon, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, and jaggery. Cook until the mixture thickens and the lemons are well-coated. Store in a sterilised jar and enjoy with rice or roti. Pickles are among the most loved condiments enjoyed across the globe. A small portion of pickle can enhance the taste of the entire meal.