Food Encyclopedia

Meyer lemon

Botanists believe this relatively new lemon-family member is a cross between a lemon and an orange. It's named after F. N. Meyer who in 1908 imported it into the United States from China where it's been grown for centuries. Meyer lemons have a rounder shape and smoother skin than common commercial lemons; their color ranges from deep yellow to yellow-orange. The aromatic juice is sweeter and less acidic than that of regular lemons. Meyer lemons are available from October through May in specialty produce markets and many supermarkets. Choose firm fruit that's heavy for its size. Refrigerate in a plastic bag for up to 2 weeks.