Kaffir Lime Leaves

We are so excited to bring in Kaffir lime leaves! -The Kaffir lime is a thorny bush native to Indonesia. Commonly grown in back yards & patios throughout Southeast Asia, it has wonderfully aromatic leaves that are indispensable in many Thai, Lao, Cambodian, & Indonesian dishes. Kaffir lime leaves are cut up into fine slivers and used in stir-fries, curries, & salads or used whole, like a bay leaf, to flavor clear broths & coconut soups. They are often paired with lemongrass for a complex lemony flavor. Kaffir lime leaves perfectly compliment fish & chicken. They can be used fresh, dried, or frozen.
Try this delectable & quick Tom Yum soup recipe with your next Thai meal!

Mushroom Tom Yum (Soup)
5 cups water
4 6” stalks of fresh lemongrass
2 Tbsp. shallots, minced
1 lb. mushrooms (like shitake, straw, or oyster)
4 large kaffir lime leaves
2 tsp. Thai Kitchen Roasted Red Chili Paste
2 limes, juiced
2 Tbsp. fish sauce
2 Tbsp. fresh cilantro, chopped

Crush lemongrass with side of large knife. Bring water, lemongrass, & shallots to a boil. Add mushrooms, Kaffir lime leaves, & chili paste; simmer for a few minutes. Remove from heat, add lime juice & fish sauce. Serve hot topped with cilantro.
For extra spice, add fresh or dried crushed red peppers.