Kaffir Lime Zest
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What it is
Kaffir lime zest comes from the bumpy, fragrant skin of the Kaffir lime, a small citrus fruit native to Southeast Asia. The zest is the outer, colored layer of the peel, rich in aromatic oils. It is typically dried or used fresh to impart its distinct flavor.
Why it's used
Kaffir lime zest is used as a flavoring agent, adding a unique, intense citrus aroma and taste to foods. It is commonly found in Thai, Indonesian, and other Southeast Asian cuisines, particularly in curries, soups, marinades, and sauces.
Health notes
Kaffir lime zest is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food flavoring. It is a natural plant product, and no specific health concerns are associated with its consumption at typical dietary levels. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated many flavoring substances, but specific evaluations for Kaffir lime zest are not widely publicized.
Allergen info
Kaffir lime zest is not derived from any of the nine FDA major allergens. It does not contain gluten.