California Grown: Lemons

hmuser
6 days ago
2 min read

Samma Hosseni on Unsplash

What is a lemon:

Lemons or Citrus Limon are a member of the Citrus family, such as Oranges or Citron, that are believed to come from Southern Asia. The specific place of origin is unknown. It was first spread from Asia to the West through Persia in 300-200 BC. Later, it made its way to the Americas through Christopher Columbus in 1493.

Cultural importance:

In many cultures and civilizations Lemons represent purity and fertility. Used in many traditions and rituals, such as Hinduism, where it is used to ward off negative energy. Later used by Roman elites as a sign of wealth in their gardens due to its rarity, appearance, scent, and medicinal uses.

Ernest Porzi on Unsplash

California Lemons:

Lemons were first introduced to the state in the 18th century, later spread to southern California where its most commonly grown to this day in the 19th century. Although grown throughout the state, the four largest counties are Ventura County, San Diego County, Riverside County, and Imperial County.

What are Lemons used for:

Lemons have a variety of uses, from aesthetics, home remedies, baking, and cooking. You can add a bit of lemon juice to a soup that may be flat, this helps to brighten and add flavour. It is also a good ingredient for desserts utlizing both the juice and the zest of the lemon to bring out its flavours. You can also use sugar to flavour it and help express the natural oils in the lemon by adding zest to the sugar and rubbing the two together. Use lemons to help brighten and add complexity to a dish with their natural acidic and sweet juices.