Lemon Myrtle

Lemon myrtle is a shrub or tree native to Queensland, Australia. Fresh or dried leaves are used for human consumption, and lemon myrtle is a great producer of citrol, the oil responsible for its signature flavor and aroma. Some say that these leaves have more lemony aromas than actual lemons, which is not surpirising considering that myrtle has more than 90% citrol, while lemons have about 5%, making lemon myrtle an ingredient with the most intense lemon aroma in the world.

Due to its tangy and citrusy flavors, it’s often used as a substitute for lemon zest or lemongrass. The spice is often used in marinades, pancake batter, and meat rubs. In Australia, lemon myrtle is traditionally used with prawns, shortbread, whole baked fish, and roast chicken.