Key Limes

[OpenD]

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Originally posted by ericlpDon't know if they were "key" limes but you might want to check it out.

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Two main kinds you see in grocery stores are Persian Limes and Key Limes, aka Mexican Limes.

The "Key" in the name comes from Key West, which popularized them to Americans with drinks like daiquiris and also with Key Lime pie. They are smaller and rounder than Persian Limes, and have a more floral smell. Typically about an inch or so across, and commonly sold in a string bag of 20.

Persian Limes are larger, often a couple of inches long, and are more oblong. Their taste is a bit stronger, and they have less "perfume."

There are other kinds, like Kaffir Limes, which are prized for their fragrant leaves, used in cooking.

For my money, however, the finest of all are the Calamondin, aka Golden Lime. They look like small mandarin oranges, but taste more like limes. I buy them whenever I see them at the farmer's market. I love using them in drink mixers.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Calamondin