Kaffir Lime Leaves seem to be a common ingredient in Thai food, particularly coconut based dishes. I have never seen them in Atlanta, and I've looked (farmers market, whole foods, normal grocery, but not an Asian grocery store). What is the flavor profile of these leaves? Is there a good substitute?
Substitute for Kaffir Lime Leaves
herbslimesubstitutionsthai-cuisine
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Best Answer
I wouldn't attempt to substitute. I've read somewhere that you can use regular lime leaves, but I've never seen those anywhere. Even Googling for lime leaf turns up kaffir lime leaves.
They can be found easily enough online: ImportFood.com. They freeze well for months in just a zip-lock bag.
The flavor profile is best described as a bright floral aromatic. It's similar in function, not taste, to a bay leaf. Thai cuisine uses kaffir lime leaves much as we do bay leaves.
If you decide buying online isn't worth the hassle, then Kitchen Savvy suggests the following substitute: