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Black lemon (Loomi)

(Black lemon, Noomi basra, Dried lime, Loumi, Limoo amani, Loomi aswad, Leimoon aswad, Limo Omani, لومي)

Black lemon, also known as loomi, noomi basra, or dried lime, is a popular ingredient in Middle Eastern cuisine. Despite its name, black lemon is actually a dried lime, typically sun-dried or oven-dried until it turns dark brown or black. Black lemons are small, hard, and dark brown to black in color with a wrinkled, leathery skin.


They have a unique, tangy, and slightly smoky flavor with a hint of bitterness. The drying process concentrates the citrus flavors and adds complexity. Black lemons are commonly used to add a sour and slightly fermented flavor to various dishes. They are particularly popular in Persian and Gulf cuisine and can be used whole, cracked, or ground into a powder.


In stews and soups, black lemons are often added to impart a deep, tangy flavor, typically pierced or crushed to release their flavor during cooking. They are used to flavor rice dishes, such as biryani, providing a sour note that balances the spices.


Ground black lemon powder can be used as a seasoning for meats, fish, and vegetables.

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