Beat the heat with this bright and tangy Calamansi Juice (Filipino Lemonade)! Simple to make with just a few ingredients, it's the perfect drink to quench your thirst on a hot day.
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This spring, our calamansi tree went wild with fruit!
Faced with a citrus explosion, we decided to share the sunshine. Calamansi juice is the perfect way to spread some cheer, and we're excited to show you how easy it is to make!
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What is Calamansi?
Calamansi, also known as calamondin or Philippine lime, is a citrus fruit native to the Philippines and other parts of Southeast Asia.
It is a small, round fruit that resembles a small lime or mandarin orange, typically measuring about 3-4 centimeters in diameter.
This widely cultivated for its culinary and medicinal uses, as well as for its ornamental value.
Health Benefits
Calamansi offers various health benefits due to its rich nutrient profile and antioxidant properties. Here are some of its potential health benefits:
- Rich in Vitamin C: It is packed with vitamin C, an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in supporting the immune system.
- Boosts Immune System: Consuming calamansi regularly may help strengthen the immune system and reduce the risk of infections, colds, and flu.
- Antioxidant Properties: Contains antioxidants such as flavonoids and limonoids, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and lowering the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
- Aids Digestion: Its acidic nature can help stimulate the production of digestive enzymes, promoting better digestion and nutrient absorption.
- Promotes Skin Health: Offten used in skincare products due to its astringent and antibacterial properties. Applying topically may help reduce acne, lighten dark spots and blemishes, and promote a clearer complexion.
- Detoxification: Its is believed to have detoxifying properties, helping to cleanse the body of toxins and impurities.
- Alkalizing Effect: Despite its acidic taste, calamansi juice has an alkalizing effect on the body once metabolized. Balancing the body's pH levels may help reduce inflammation and improve overall health.
- Weight Management: Calamansi juice is low in calories and may be included in a weight loss or weight management diet.
Culinary Uses
Calamansi is a versatile citrus fruit that is widely used in various culinary applications, adding a tangy and refreshing flavor to dishes. Here are some popular culinary uses of calamansi:
- Calamansi Juice: It is an popular beverage in Southeast Asia. It can be served cold or mixed with water to make a refreshing drink.
- Marinades and Dressings: The acidic juice of calamansi is ideal for marinades for Filipino barbecues and chicken inasal and other dressings. It tenderizes meat and seafood while adding a tangy flavor.
- Sauces and Dips: Combine it with fish sauce, chili peppers, garlic, and sugar to create a classic dipping sauce for spring rolls or fried snacks. It can also be used as a dipping sauce for grilled meats or seafood.
- Cocktails and Mocktails: Use it as a substitute for lemon or lime juice in classic cocktails such as margaritas, mojitos, or daiquiris.
- Vinaigrettes: Combine with olive oil, mustard, honey, and herbs to create a flavorful dressing for mixed greens, grilled vegetables, or fruit salads.
- Soups and Stews: Calamansi juice can be used to add acidity and brightness to soups and stews. Add a splash to soups such as sinigang (sour soup) or tinola (chicken soup) to enhance the flavor.
- Baked Goods: Adds a delightful citrus twist to muffins, cakes, cookies, and breads. Calamansi muffins is a delicious example!
Ingredients
- Juice of calamansi
- Sweetener of your choice (honey, simple syrup, sugar)
- Water (cold or hot)
- Ice cubes (optional)
How to Make Calamansi Juice?
- Prep it!: Wash the calamansi thoroughly, then cut them in half.
- Extract the Juice: Squeeze the juice from the fruit using a citrus juicer or by hand. Strain out the seeds if needed.
- Optional – Strain the Juice: For a smoother drink, strain the juice to remove any pulp.
- Optional – Adjust Sweetness: Taste the juice and add sugar, honey, or syrup to sweeten it as desired.
- Optional – Dilute with Water: If the juice is too tart, dilute it with water to your preferred taste.
- Serve: Pour over ice and garnish with a slice of calamansi or mint.
- Enjoy: Serve right away, or store leftovers in the fridge for later!
Storage Instruction
- Refrigerate: Calamansi can be stored in the refrigerator to extend their shelf life. Place the fruits in a perforated plastic bag or container to allow for airflow while preventing moisture loss.
- Store in a Cool, Dry Place: If you plan to use it within a few days, you can store them at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. However, keep in mind that they may spoil more quickly at room temperature.
- Avoid Moisture: Make sure to dry the fruits thoroughly before storing them and avoid storing them in a humid environment.
- Use airtight containers: Place them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out or absorbing odors from other foods in the refrigerator.
- Freezing: This be frozen for long-term storage. Squeeze the juice from the fruits and pour it into ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag or container.
Popular Dishes with Calamansi
- Sinigang: A tangy Filipino soup with tamarind-based broth, often made with pork, shrimp, or fish. The dish is known for its savory-sour flavor, enhanced with a citrusy twist.
- Pancit: A stir-fried noodle dish that combines vegetables, meat, and seafood, often served with a squeeze of citrus for added brightness.
- Sisig: A sizzling dish made with chopped pork, onions, and spices, served on a hot plate with a zesty citrus splash to balance the richness.
- Chicken Bistek: This savory chicken dish is simmered in a soy-based sauce with onions and finished with a hint of citrus for a tangy bite.
- Tinola: A comforting chicken soup with green papaya and spinach, often served with a zesty hint to lift the flavors.
- Ceviche: A refreshing seafood dish, marinated in a citrusy sauce with fresh herbs, onions, and spices, perfect for a light appetizer.
- Inasal: Grilled chicken marinated in a blend of spices, often served with a bright citrus flavor to enhance the smoky, savory taste.
- Barbecue: Filipino-style skewers of marinated pork or chicken, grilled to perfection and paired with a citrusy dipping sauce for added zing.
Try substituting lemon with calamansi in this Immunity shot recipe! Let's get healthy!
Recipe FAQs
While the peel is edible, it is very sour and bitter compared to the juice. It is commonly used as a flavoring agent or garnish in dishes but is not typically eaten on its own.
Calamansi can be found in Asian grocery stores, markets, or specialty produce stores, particularly in regions with a large Southeast Asian population. It may also be available in some supermarkets or online stores.
Yes, calamansi trees can be grown at home in tropical or subtropical climates. They prefer well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight. It can be grown from seeds, cuttings, or grafted onto other citrus rootstocks.
If not available, you can substitute it with a combination of lemon and lime juice, although the flavor may not be exactly the same. Other alternatives include vinegar or other citrus fruits such as tangerines or kumquats.
Fresh calamansi juice can be stored in the refrigerator for about 3-5 days. To extend its shelf life, you can freeze the juice in ice cube trays and store the cubes in a freezer bag for several months.
Calamansi has a unique flavor profile that combines elements of both lime and mandarin orange. It is characterized by its tangy and tart taste, similar to that of a lime, but with a slightly sweeter and more floral aroma reminiscent of mandarin orange. The juice is refreshingly sour, with a hint of sweetness, making it a versatile ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes.
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📋Recipe
Calamansi Juice Drink (Filipino Lemonade)
Equipment
- 1 tall drinking glass
Ingredients
- 8 pieces calamansi (halved, juiced, strained)
- 2 tablespoon honey
- 2 cups water (hot or cold)
- ice cubes (optional)
Instructions
- Wash the calamansi fruits thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Cut the calamansi fruits in half crosswise using a sharp knife. You can also use a citrus reamer or juicer to extract the juice more easily.
- Squeeze the halved calamansi fruits over a citrus juicer or a fine-mesh strainer placed over a bowl to catch the juice. Use your hand or a spoon to press the fruits and extract as much juice as possible.
- If you prefer a pulp-free juice, strain the extracted juice through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove any seeds or pulp. This step is optional, depending on your preference.
- Taste the calamansi juice and adjust the sweetness to your liking. If desired, add a sweetener such as sugar, honey, or simple syrup and stir until dissolved. Start with a small amount and gradually add more until you reach the desired level of sweetness.
- If you find the calamansi juice too tart, you can dilute it with water to mellow out the flavor. Add cold water to the juice, starting with a small amount, and adjust to taste.
- Pour the calamansi juice into glasses filled with ice cubes, if desired. Garnish with a slice of calamansi or a sprig of mint for an extra touch of freshness.
- Serve the calamansi juice immediately and enjoy its refreshing citrus flavor. You can also store any leftover juice in a sealed container in the refrigerator for later use.
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