Difference Between Lime and Key Lime (With Table)

Limes are rectangular and less rounded than other citrus fruits. The limes are larger, with a diameter of approximately 2 cm. Limes have a sour and bitter flavour that is less fragrant than key limes. Limes are noted for having a milder flavour and scent. Limes are believed to have originated in Persia, India, and China. On the Asian continent, limes are commonly farmed in large quantities.

A key lime‘s shape is rounded. The primary lines appear to be smaller, with a diameter of about 1.5cm. Key limes have a distinct aroma and are acidic and sweet at the same time. The aroma and flavour of key limes are likewise distinct and tart. Key limes can be traced back to Mexico and the Florida Keys. Key limes are regularly farmed in huge quantities in Africa, America, and the Caribbean.

Comparison Table Between Lime and Key Lime

What is Lime?

Persian limes and normal limes are two more names for lime. When ripe, limes are yellow, and when unripe, they are bright green with rough skin. Limes are typically oblong, with less rounded edges. The limes are larger, with a diameter of roughly 2cm.

In comparison to key limes, limes are less fragrant and have an acidic, bitter flavour. Limes are recognised for having a less zesty flavour or scent. Limes are believed to have originated in Persian, Indian, and Chinese cultures. Limes are commonly farmed in large quantities throughout Asia.

Limes are commonly grown throughout the year, are widely available, and are also easier to locate. Limes are less basic or alkaline than other fruits and have a low nutritional value. Limes are commonly employed in meals that are prepared only once in a while.

What is Key Lime?

Other names for key limes include Florida key limes and key limes. When mature, key limes are yellowish-green in colour, and when unripe, they are dark green. They do, however, have smoother skin. The form of key lime is completely rounded. The major lines appear to be smaller, measuring roughly 1.5cm in diameter.

Key limes have a strong scent and are both tart and sweet. The perfume and flavour of key limes are also tangy and distinctive. The origins of key limes can be traced back to Mexico and the Florida Keys. In Africa, America, and the Caribbean, key limes are commonly farmed in large quantities.

Key limes are only available during certain times of the year. As a result, they’re more difficult to come by. Key limes have high alkaline content and are highly basic. Key limes are nutrient-dense and alkaline, with high basicity. The deodorants in the key lime pie are made with key limes.

Main Differences Between Lime and Key Lime

1. The other names of lime are Persian limes and regular limes. On the other hand, key limes are also called by other names, such as Florida key limes.
2. Limes appear yellow when they ripe, and they are bright green when unripe with rough skin. On the other hand, key limes appear yellowish-green in colour when they ripe and dark green when they are unripe. However, they possess smoother skin.
3. Limes are generally found in oblong shapes. They are less rounded. On the other hand, key limes are fully rounded in shape.
4. The size of the limes is bigger, about 2cm in diameter. On the other hand, the size of the key lines is smaller in appearance, about 1.5cm in diameter.
5. Limes are less aromatic in comparison to key limes and possess a tangy and bitter taste. On the other hand, key limes possess an intense aroma and are tangy and sweet.
6. The flavour or aroma of limes is known to be less zesty. On the other hand, the aroma and flavour of the key limes are zesty and distinctive as well.
7. The origin of the limes can be traced back to Persian, Indian and Chinese origin. On the other hand, key limes can be traced back to Mexico and Florida keys origin.
8. Limes are generally grown extensively in areas of the Asian continent. On the other hand, key limes are usually grown extensively in areas of Africa, America and the Caribbean.
9. Limes are generally grown in all seasons of the year. They are readily available and are easier to find as well. On the other hand, key limes are seasonal. Thus, they are harder to find.
10. Limes are generally less basic or alkaline, and they are also low in nutrition. On the other hand, key limes are highly basic and alkaline, containing more nutrition.
11. Limes are generally used in dishes that are being cooked occasionally. On the other hand, key limes are used for the preparation of deodorants of key lime pie.

Conclusion

Lime and key limes are small, rounded, juicy citrus fruits. They are popular worldwide and are consumed almost daily as a part of the diet. They are also rich in vitamin C and citric acid, which is highly beneficial for the body.

Limes are often grown throughout the year, and they are both easily available and easy to locate. Limes are low in nutrients and have a lower basic or alkaline pH. Limes are commonly utilised in a variety of recipes that are prepared regularly.

Only specific periods of the year are key limes available. As a result, they’re becoming more scarce. Key limes are alkaline and basic, with high alkaline content. Key limes are alkaline and highly basic, having more nutrients. Key limes are utilised in the creation of key lime pie deodorants.

References

1. https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/pmla/article/recipes-for-reading-summer-pasta-lobster-a-la-riseholme-and-key-lime-pie/8C8AE07F7C16E1F16BEAE515465C1712
2. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1934578X1200701128