Calamansi’s many forms

Also called lemonsito, calamondin, Philippine lime, and Filipino lemon, the calamansi is a mighty citrus fruit primarily grown in the Philippines. In recent years, it has been recognized globally as an essential ingredient in Filipino cooking, so much so that it has been called the next big citrus fruit. However, the calamansi remains elusive abroad. Despite the high demand for the fruit, it is still hard to come by in Filipino and Asian stores. To meet this clamor, manufacturers and producers have come up with calamansi-based products that offer the same distinct flavor of the fruit. With these items, one can easily create dishes and beverages that require the properties of the calamansi even without the actual fruit. 

Here are different calamansi-based products that one can rely on if the fruit proves to be too difficult to source:

CALAMANSI’S MANY FORMS

ALL-PURPOSE CALAMANSI SEASONING 

• This bottle seasoning is made out of pure calamansi and can be used to season dishes directly.
• It can also be used in dipping sauces, cocktails, salad dressings, noodles, and marinades.
• The seasoning is also high in vitamin C and can boost one’s immunity. 

SQUEEZED CALAMANSI EXTRACT

• In this bottle is 100-percent pure calamansi extract with no preservatives.
• A single drop offers the same freshness and sourness as that of the freshly squeezed citrus fruit. 

CALAMANSI JUICE CONCENTRATE 

• This all-natural concentrate is considered a healthier alternative to powdered calamansi juice.
• It can be used to make different beverages, including juices, cocktails, and shakes.
• Other available variants combine calamansi with honey, ginger, or turmeric. 

CALAMANSI OIL 

• Made out of pressed calamansi fruits, this oil can be used as a flavoring for cooking and baking.
• It has a natural calamansi flavor and provides a strong citrus aroma. 

CALAMANSI CIDER VINEGAR

• An alternative to the typical cane, coconut, or palm version, this vinegar is made out of naturally fermented calamansi.
• It is aged meticulously to ensure that the distinct citrusy flavor profile of calamansi is incorporated in the mixture. 

FREEZE-DRIED CALAMANSI JUICE EXTRACT

• This product is made out of calamansi pulp juice extract that is freeze-dried and spray-dried.
• It can be used in various culinary applications, ranging from baked goods and desserts to vegetarian products. 

SINIGANG SA CALAMANSI MIX 

• Calamansi can also be used in making sinigang. And without access to the fresh fruit, one can instead rely on instant powdered mixes that mimic the same flavor.
• This can be cooked with shrimp, fish, or even pork. 

ASEPTIC CALAMANSI PUREE

• This 100-percent natural puree is made out of fresh calamansi that have been broken down and decontaminated.
• It can be used in making baked treats and beverages. 

CALAMANSI-INFUSED CONDIMENTS

• Calamansi is a mainstay in many Filipino sawsawan recipes. These condiments are already flavored with calamansi so sourcing the fresh fruit isn’t an issue anymore.
• Condiments available in the market include toyomansi (soy sauce and calamansi), patismansi (fish sauce and calamansi), and cocomansi (coconut aminos and calamansi). 

CALAMANSI LIQUEUR 

• This is a vodka-based drink infused with the essence of the calamansi’s rind.
• It acts as a base for numerous calamansi-flavored cocktails and beverages, and can even be used in making desserts and pastries.