Lime Pearls

Zesty and sharp, lime pearls cut through rich flavors and brighten everything from tacos to desserts.

Ingredients

  • ½ cup (125mL) fresh lime juice
  • ½ cup (125mL) cold water
  • 1 tsp (4g) sugar (optional)
  • ½ tsp (2g) sodium alginate
  • 1 tsp (4.5g) calcium chloride
  • 2 cups (500mL) ice-cold water (for bath)

Instructions

  1. Mix Base
    • Blend lime juice, water, and sugar (if using).
  2. Add Alginate
    • Sprinkle sodium alginate while blending on low. Mix thoroughly.
  3. Rest
    • Let mixture sit 30–45 minutes to remove bubbles.
  4. Strain
    • Pass through a fine mesh sieve into The Spherificator®.
  5. Prepare Bath
    • Dissolve calcium chloride in cold water.
  6. Form Pearls
    • Drop from 5 inches height into bath. Cure for 45 seconds.
  7. Finish
    • Rinse in cold water and serve immediately or chill.

Expert Tips

Flavor Twists
  • Sweet-lime: Add honey or agave for desserts.
  • Spicy: Blend with jalapeño juice for heat.
Color Control
  • Brighter green: Add zest or blanched mint leaves.
  • Translucent pearls: Strain juice multiple times.
Troubleshooting
  • If too sour: Add more water or sweetener.
  • If pearls dissolve: Cure slightly longer.
Serving Ideas
  • Tacos: Add to fish or shrimp tacos.
  • Desserts: Serve with coconut rice or sorbet.
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