Some of the varieties are: ‘Corsican’, ‘Etrog’, ‘Bengal’, ‘Palestine’ and Buddha’s Hand or fingered citron. You say Pummelo, I say Pomelo! Either way, these can be grown in Melbourne, but the quality of fruit will be poor
Ah, the humble citron. If you’ve ever stumbled upon one, you might have thought, “What in the world is that ugly lemon doing here?” Well, my friend, you’re not alone. Citron, particularly the Greek variety that resembles the lemon that had a rough day, is a bit of a rarity in Melbourne. But fear not! If you’re on a mission to find this elusive fruit, I’m here to guide you through the citrus jungle of our fair city.
So, why the obsession with citron? For those uninitiated, citron is not just another lemon wannabe; it’s a unique fruit with a thick, bumpy rind and a fragrant aroma that can elevate your dishes to divine levels. It’s often used in Mediterranean cuisine, particularly in Greece, where it’s revered for its culinary versatility. And if you’re planning a potluck, as our Reddit friend /u/bakedis is, then having citron in your arsenal will definitely earn you some culinary street cred.
Now, let’s talk about where you can find this citrus gem in Melbourne, specifically on the south side. While you might not have had luck at the markets (and let’s be honest, those markets can sometimes feel like an episode of a cooking show gone wrong), there are still a few places you can check out:
1. Specialty Grocery Stores: Start your hunt at local Mediterranean or Greek grocery stores. They often have a treasure trove of hard-to-find ingredients. Places like Mediterranean Wholesalers or Hellenic Republic could be your golden ticket. Just don’t forget to bring your best Greek accent and some baklava as a peace offering.
2. Asian Supermarkets: Believe it or not, some Asian grocery stores stock citron, particularly the Korean variety known as “yuzu”. It’s not exactly the same, but it can serve as a decent substitute if you’re in a pinch. Plus, you can pick up some dumplings while you’re there. Win-win!
3. Online Marketplaces: If you’re really in a bind, consider scouring the internet. Websites like Etsy or eBay sometimes have sellers who specialize in rare fruits. Just be prepared to pay a small fortune for shipping, because who doesn’t love a good surprise on their credit card bill?
4. Local Farms: If you’re feeling adventurous, why not take a trip to a local farm? Some farms grow a variety of citrus fruits and may just have citron hanging out in their orchard. Plus, it’s a great excuse to escape the city for a day and breathe in some fresh country air.
5. Ask Around: Don’t be shy! Post on local Facebook groups, or better yet, ask fellow Redditors for their tips. You might find someone who has a secret stash of citron in their backyard (or at least knows where to find it).
Now, I know what you’re thinking: “All this effort for an ugly lemon?” But trust me, once you get your hands on that citron and whip up a dish that has your friends raving, you’ll be the hero of the potluck. Just make sure to keep your Reddit account on the down-low until after the event; we don’t want any spoilers ruining the surprise!
In conclusion, the quest for citron in Melbourne may seem daunting, but with a little persistence (and perhaps a side of sarcasm), you’ll be well on your way to impressing your friends with your culinary prowess. Happy hunting, and may the citrus gods be ever in your favor!
Inspired by: “Where can I get Citron 🍋 in Melbourne?” (r/melbourne)