Gol nemu limes are an elongated lime variety grown in the Assam region of India. In this part of India, regional dialect often refers to limes as ‘lemons’ mostly because the word for both is interchangeable. Gol nemu is also known as Kazi or Kaji nemu, Assam lemon, 'nemu tenga'.

Gol nemu limes have a long cylindrical shape that is unique to this variety with a smooth skin, light green to almost yellowish in color and ranges from 2 to 4 inches in length. The inner flesh is a pale green that is very juicy and offers a mild acidic and somewhat sweet lime flavor. Its unique aroma and flavor have given way to the nickname “Queen of all citrus fruits” in its region of origin.

Serving Ideas

Gol nemu limes are used to add sourness to spicy dishes in the Assam and Nagaland regions of Northeastern India. The limes are cut in half and juiced, the skin and seeds discarded. The Assam limes can be dried or pickled and preserved for years.

Ethnic/Cultural Info

The skin of the gol nemu lime is rich in aromatic oil and is often extracted for aromatherapy uses as well as medicinal uses. As a treatment for digestive maladies, gol nemu limes are covered in salt for a few days, then rubbed with mustard oil (another Ayurvedic treatment) and sun-dried. The limes can be preserved for several years this way and over time, its medicinal properties increase.

Geography/History

Gol nemu limes, or Assam limes are native to the Assam region of India. This area is sandwiched between Bhutan and Bangladesh in the north-eastern part of India. Limes are thought to come from South-east Asia and require a tropical environment. In India, most of the produce is wild and foraged by villagers to sell at farmer’s markets.

Seasons/Availability

Gol nemu lime are available year-round in tropical climates.