The Citrus Fruit Calamansi Adds a Bright Flavor to Filipino Dishes and Cocktails

You may have seen the name "calamansi" pop up on a sparkling water label or as a beverage in your local grocery lately. Calamansi is also known as a "calamondin" or "Philippine lime." For ages, calamansi has been a cooking staple in the Philippines and Southeast Asia. Its flavor is a very tart combination of lemon, lime and orange.

Where to Find Calamansi

Native to the Philippines and Southeast Asia, calamansi grows on trees that thrive in Mediterranean and subtropical climates. In colder regions, the trees are also grown as house plants. Once planted, trees can take anywhere from three to five years to bear fruit.

Unless you are able to find some in your local market that sells foods from Asia or have a generous friend with a calamansi tree in their yard, it can be difficult to source fresh fruits. Luckily, it is easy to find 100% calamansi juice and puree in shops and online.

When Is Calamansi in Season?

Although calamansi trees can bear fruit all year round (depending on where the tree is located), its peak season is from mid-August to October in the Philippines.

Health Benefits of Calamansi

Due to its place in the citrus family, it may be unsurprising to learn that calamansi is rich in vitamin C. Vitamin C consumption has been shown to help support the immune system, help the body with collagen production and lower blood pressure. Calamansi, like other vitamin C-rich foods, is also praised for its antioxidant qualities. In the Philippines, calamansi juice is frequently drunk as a remedy for an upset stomach.

How to Choose, Clean and Store Fresh Calamansi

When looking for perfectly ripe calamansi, look for fruits that are beginning to turn from pale green to yellow. Fully orange fruits are overripe and green fruits are underripe. The skin should be smooth and feel firm to the touch. Calamansi can be stored at room temperature or in the refrigerator, with a bit of stem still attached to prolong freshness. When ready to use, gently wash them like any other citrus fruit.

How to Cook with Calamansi

As with any citrus fruit, juice is the main component that is used in recipes. With this in mind, the list of applications is nearly endless. In recipes that require lemons or limes, try substituting some calamansi instead. Below are two of our favorite recipes featuring calamansi.