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France is famous for it's wine, Columbia for it's coffee, and Key West is famous for it's Key Lime Pie.
Q- What are Key Limes? A- Key Limes are a citrus fruit, originally from Asia. They are small and round with a unique bitter tartness that gives them a special taste.
Q- Why are Key Limes called "Key Limes?" A- They only grow well in limited zones throughout the world. It just so happens that the Keys are one of those special places. In Mexico, the same species of limes are called Mexican Limes.
Q- Why are some Key Limes "green" and others "yellow?" A- The "green" stage is the early stage of ripening and when the Key Lime’s flavor is strongest. The "yellow" stage is a final stage of ripening and the flavor is somewhat mellowed. Most people use the Key Lime in the "green" stage.
Q- Can I drink Key Lime Juice straight? A- It isn’t recommended. Key Limes are very acidic, with a bitter- sourness. It is best blended into foods or drinks or when used as a marinade.
Q- Key West is so small, where do they grow the limes? A- In Key West almost everyone has a Key Lime tree a "stones throw" away or in their back yard, but the groves for the industry are in Mexico.
Q- Is it true that the Romans floated Key Lime leaves in their baths? A- Yes, they considered them a grooming aid and scented their bath water with the fragrant leaves.
Q- Can I make a Lime pie with generic limes? A- Yes, but the texture and flavor will not be the same and most people who have tried it weren’t pleased with the end product.
Q- How can I tell a Key Lime tree from other Lime trees? A- Easy, Key Lime trees have THORNS, big ones that HURT!
Q- Do I have to cook a Key Lime Pie? A- No. The acids (which are high in Key Limes) actually cook the pie itself, but we think a cooked pie is tastier and has a better texture.
Q- What will happen if I put green coloring in a Key Lime Pie? A- Besides the color, everyone will know it isn’t an authentic Key Lime Pie and they may talk or laugh about it behind your back. Big NO NO!
Q- How long will bottled Key Lime Juice last? A- On the shelf, it will turn a brownish color after about 4-6 months, but the juice can still be used, just the color is affected. We recommend that you pour 1/2 cup portions into a freezer bag and freeze it until you need it. Frozen Key Lime juice will last for years.
Q- Can I travel with a Key Lime Pie? A- Yes, but you must keep them cold.
Q- How long will a Key Lime Pie last in a refrigerator? A- We recommend that the pie be consumed within 3 days.
Q- Where can I buy real Key Limes? A- Sometimes your local grocer like Publix, Kroger or Winn Dixie will carry them, but distribution is somewhat localized. Check with the produce manager at your local grocery store, they can tell you if they ever carry them.
Q- Do you ship Key Limes? A- No. Agricultural rules & regulations don't allow us to ship them.
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