A few weeks ago, we all enjoyed a great presentation of citrus fruits, given by one of the premier growers in France (and perhaps the world), Monsieur and Madame Bachès. We will probably never again have the opportunity to see so many specimens of citrus together. Not that I usually grow so sentimental over things like citrus, but it really was a rare opportunity. And to hear from someone who really knows–REALLY knows–all about them was incredible. I wasn’t really expecting much, but it was super interesting and informative, and I can’t help but share some of it in photos.
Look how thick the rind is on that one.
Just a few of the many shapes, sizes, and colors of citrus. Did you know that most limes actually ripen to yellow? We pick them before they reach their full maturity. No wonder the french call limes “citron vert”, or the “green lemons.” 
these two pictures show blood oranges that have been left on the tree for various amounts of time. I believe the darkest one was left a whole year. It was interesting how the flavors and textures changed along with the appearance.
citrus caviar. cut the fruit in half, squeeze gently, and the little balls of flesh pop right out. Amazing culinary potential (or just a fun snack on some yogurt, I imagine) 
Chef William Ledeuil (himself a graduate of Ferrandi and now the chef at Ze Kitchen Galerie, where, incidentally, I nearly went for my internship) came to demonstrate how he uses citrus in some of his recipes. 
How lucky to be able to appreciate the beauty and diversity of these fruits.
I’m not a fan of citrus. But I read your blog with excitement… mainly because you’ve been gone for two weeks. I miss hearing about my favorite Parisian.
As usual, I loved your photos. So colorful! But what is that strange, alien-looking “fruit” in the first picture?? “What’s inside?”, I wondered aloud… to myself. =o\
Hope everything is going well and you are having fun!
the first one is called Buddha’s hand. Apparently it is derived from some sort of mutant fruit. It doesn’t have the fleshy bit like most citrus, it’s just white inside….not particularly interesting for eating but u can zest it or use it as decoration i guess. sorry i’ve been so slow on blogging! i’ve got LOADS to write about. currently misplaced my camera cable so cant actually upload anything until i find it again lol. will be back to regular posting soon (although wont be in paris)
“mutant fruit”? Sounds tasty! =o\
Oh, no! You’re leaving Paris? I was hoping you would want to stay. But I hope the next place you go is even better!