Sfusato Amalfitano: Lemon of the Amalfi Coast

You have certainly heard about how important the Amalfi Coast lemon is. It is daily used in our food, our gardens and our life. But what is the sfusato amalfitano? And why is it so famous worldwide? This article will explain its characteristics, how it became so famous, its history, and how we use it.

Characteristics

The Amalfi Coast’s lemon, also known as “Sfusato Amalfitano”, is an Italian IGP product (protected Geographical Indication). It is exclusively produced in the towns of the Amalfi Coast.
This wonderful product has some exclusive features that make it unique in the world: its elliptical-elongated shape, its medium-thick bowl and its light yellow color. It has an intense aroma and scent and is very rich in essential oils and terpenes, which make it a product of excellence for the production of limoncello. Its pulp is juicy and moderately acidic, has few seeds, has a medium-large size and is very rich in vitamin C.

Cultivation techniques and collection

Sfusato Amalfitano grows exposed to the sun and hot winds from the south and enjoys the protection of the Lattari Mountains which shelters them from the cold currents coming from the countries of Northern Europe and from the “Tramontana” (the north wind), a wind discovered by the navigators of the maritime republic (in fact it takes its name from the town of Tramonti). The typical terraced cultivation contributes to making its “gardens” famous in the world.
The cultivation takes place under the scaffolding of chestnut poles, with variable height, they are protected in cold periods with non-woven fabric covering sheets to prevent the plants from being exposed to the cold.
Lemon generally blooms twice a year: in spring and autumn. In May generally, the collection begins. In fact it is possible to notice on the same branch the ripe lemon, the lemon which will then be harvested in autumn, and the lemon flower which will then be born in the following spring.

A little hint of history…

The towns of the Sorrento-Amalfi peninsula where the first lemon trees spread were Maiori, Minori, Sorrento and Massa Lubrense. The Arabs were the first people who introduced the lemons to Spain and Sicily and then onto Campania. But the real spread of the lemon, in the Amalfi area, took place above all thanks to the need to arrange this fruit as a result of its effectiveness in the fight against scurvy, a vitamin C deficiency disease. From 1400 to 1800 the demand was very high, even from other countries, especially north-European because of their commitment to the fight against scurvy.

The way we use lemons

Lemons from the Amalfi Coast are widely used in cooking around the coastline. In addition to the production of limoncello, another typical use is as a dressing for fish dishes, seafood appetizers, in the famous dishes of the area, on meats… it is always next to the main dishes.
The use of lemon also extends to the confectionery sector, at the base of many specialties, such as delizia al limone, babà al limoncello, cakes, profiteroles, chocolates and many other typical local sweets.

How to have a full immersion on the Amalfi Coast of this wonderful product

So as being said, you can certainly try this product while visiting the Amalfi Coast. But if you are looking for a unique and unforgettable experience, there is the opportunity to experience a private lemon tour.
During your experience, you will stroll around the yards, have an explanation of the different kinds of lemons, of the cultivation, how and when lemons are harvested and of the several products that can be made using lemons.
You will attend a Limoncello demonstration made with the best lemons of the Amalfi Coast.
In the conclusion, while being surrounded by a magical and relaxing atmosphere you will certainly enjoy lunch having the possibility to taste healthy, exquisite, and delicious lemon-based dishes
For more information check: www.amalficoastdestination.com