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- Yuzu Fruit
- Kabuso Fruit
- Sudachi Fruit
- Home
- About Japan Fruits
- Yuzu Fruit
- Kabuso Fruit
- Sudachi Fruit
Yuzu (Citrus junos) is believed to have been introduced to Japan from China during the Tang dynasty (618-907 AD) and became widely cultivated during the Heian period (794-1185) where it was valued not only for its unique flavor but also for its fragrance. Initially favored by the aristocracy, its popularity grew among the general populace, especially during the Edo period (1603-1868), with significant cultivation in regions like Kumamoto and Kochi. Traditionally, yuzu was used in cultural practices, such as winter solstice baths, believed to promote health. Over time, it became an essential ingredient in Japanese cuisine, featured in sauces like ponzu and various dressings. In the 20th century, yuzu gained international acclaim, becoming popular in fusion dishes and beverages. Its distinct flavor profile has made it a popular choice among chefs worldwide. Today, it symbolizes both Japan’s rich culinary heritage and its modern culinary innovation.
• Size: Generally measures about 2 to 3 inches in diameter, making it smaller than many other citrus fruits.
• Shape: Typically round or oval, often resembling a small grapefruit or large mandarin.
• Color: Can range from a vibrant yellow when fully ripe to a greenish hue in younger fruit, often with some hints of orange.
• Skin Texture: Thick and bumpy, giving it a textured, almost rugged appearance. This rough exterior is characteristic of Yuzu.
• Stem and Leaf: Often have a small, Popping stem at the top, and if still attached, they may have a few small leaves that add to their visual appeal.
• Seeds: Yuzu contains several small, flat, white seeds, typically distributed throughout the pulp.
• Size: Generally measures about 2 to 3 inches in diameter, making it smaller than many other citrus fruits.
• Shape: Typically round or oval, often resembling a small grapefruit or large mandarin.
• Color: Can range from a vibrant yellow when fully ripe to a greenish hue in younger fruit, often with some hints of orange.
• Skin Texture: Thick and bumpy, giving it a textured, almost rugged appearance. This rough exterior is characteristic of Yuzu.
• Stem and Leaf: Often have a small, Popping stem at the top, and if still attached, they may have a few small leaves that add to their visual appeal.
• Seeds: Yuzu contains several small, flat, white seeds, typically distributed throughout the pulp.
• Flowering Season- Late spring to early summer, usually between May and June, depending on climate.
• Appearance- The flowers are small, white and fragrant, similar to those of other citrus species. They usually have five petals and attract various pollinators such as bees.
• Pollination – Yuzu trees are generally self-pollinating, meaning they can produce fruit without cross-pollination from other trees, although pollinators can improve fruit set and quality.
• Fruit Growth – After pollination, the flowers develop into fruit, which can take several months to ripen.
• Care Tips – Adequate watering and balanced fertilization during the growing season are essential for healthy flowering and fruiting.
Late autumn to early winter! The harvest period for Yuzu typically occurs between November and January. The fruit reaches its peak ripeness, developing its characteristic flavor and aroma. In regions where Yuzu is grown extensively, harvesting may begin as early as late October. The fruit is hand-picked from the trees to avoid damage and sorted by size, ripeness and quality. Ao-yuzu or green Yuzu (unripe) can also be harvested in July. Its pulp is acidic and filled with seeds.
Late autumn to early winter! The harvest period for Yuzu typically occurs between November and January. The fruit reaches its peak ripeness, developing its characteristic flavor and aroma. In regions where Yuzu is grown extensively, harvesting may begin as early as late October. The fruit is hand-picked from the trees to avoid damage and sorted by size, ripeness and quality. Ao-yuzu or green Yuzu (unripe) can also be harvested in July. Its pulp is acidic and filled with seeds.
• Bright, tart flavor, more nuanced than lemon, with a balance of sweetness and acidity.
• Juicy and tangy flesh, contributing a refreshing burst of citrus flavor.
• It boasts a fragrant aroma, described as a blend of lemon, grapefruit, and mandarin enhancing its overall appeal.
• Yuzu’s flavor is sometimes noted for its subtle umami characteristics, which make it versatile in both savory and sweet dishes.
• The peel can have a slight bitterness, adding depth to its flavor, especially when used in zest form.
• The flavor of Yuzu can vary slightly depending on the time of harvest. Fruits harvested later in the season may develop richer, deeper flavors as they ripen further.
• Bright, tart flavor, more nuanced than lemon, with a balance of sweetness and acidity.
• Juicy and tangy flesh, contributing a refreshing burst of citrus flavor.
• It boasts a fragrant aroma, described as a blend of lemon, grapefruit, and mandarin enhancing its overall appeal.
• Yuzu’s flavor is sometimes noted for its subtle umami characteristics, which make it versatile in both savory and sweet dishes.
• The peel can have a slight bitterness, adding depth to its flavor, especially when used in zest form.
• The flavor of Yuzu can vary slightly depending on the time of harvest. Fruits harvested later in the season may develop richer, deeper flavors as they ripen further.
Rich and complex Aroma!
• Citrusy aroma because of Limonene and Citral compounds which gives Yuzu a bright and fresh scent. The aroma is often compared to that of lemon, but it is more complex.
• Floral Undertones, a delicate floral quality that reminds one of jasmine or citrus blossom. Linalool and Linalyl Acetate present in the peel of the fruit are responsible for it.
• Faint earthy and herbal undertone, due to the presence of Terpinene compound aroma becomes more grounded compared to other citrus fruits.
• The refreshing and uplifting scent connects people to nature and the changing seasons, reinforcing its cultural significance.
Rich and complex Aroma!
• Citrusy aroma because of Limonene and Citral compounds which gives Yuzu a bright and fresh scent. The aroma is often compared to that of lemon, but it is more complex.
• Floral Undertones, a delicate floral quality that reminds one of jasmine or citrus blossom. Linalool and Linalyl Acetate present in the peel of the fruit are responsible for it.
• Faint earthy and herbal undertone, due to the presence of Terpinene compound aroma becomes more grounded compared to other citrus fruits.
• The refreshing and uplifting scent connects people to nature and the changing seasons, reinforcing its cultural significance.
