Dried whole limes are a popular ingredient in Middle Eastern and Persian cuisines, with a strong citrus flavour that is slightly sour and bitter. The drying process intensifies their taste, making them more pungent and concentrated compared to fresh limes. They also develop earthy and fermented notes, which contribute to their distinct flavour profile.

A common ingredient used in Middle Eastern, Persian, and Indian cuisine. It is made by boiling fresh limes in salt water and then sun-drying them until they become hard and black. Dried lime adds a unique tangy and citrusy flavour to dishes and is often used to impart a slightly sour taste. Infuse sauces with citrus flavours, add to a tagine to bring out the flavour or grind in a spice mill to create meat and fish rubs, tabbouleh and quinoa salads.