Buddha’s Hand

There is one point each year when shops — though not all of them — start to display a rather oddly shaped fruit. Something between a lemon and a creature you'd expect in a horror film. Yet, all it is, is Buddha’s Hand.

Originating in China and the northern part of India, Buddha’s Hand is a variety of citrus named after Buddha because of its shape, which resembles a hand in prayer or blessing. In Europe, where it’s grown, Buddha’s Hand is praised for its flavour, while in Japan and China it carries a much deeper meaning. It symbolises happiness, good fortune, and longevity—often displayed in temples both in season and during celebrations.

But this is not your average citrus fruit, bursting with juice and pulp for us to enjoy. No, Buddha’s Hand is mostly rind and pith, making it perfect for zesting and adding to food and drinks. It’s also brilliant boiled in syrup, infused in spirits, or prepared just like orangettes—turning it from a simple citrus rind into an amazing candied treat. Even better, it’s widely used in essential oils, as its aroma is something between lemon, orange, lime and orange blossom—all in one.

Seasonality

In the Northern Hemisphere (especially Italy, France, and California), it’s in season from October to February, while in the Southern Hemisphere, it runs from April to August. That’s because it likes to take its time, growing slowly and enjoying milder winters without any frost to disturb its peace.