This is the Nippon Yell Dried Fruit Ehime Lemon, made from round slices of lemons grown in Ehime Prefecture, dried and candied.
Each slice measured approximately 4 cm in diameter and 0.5 cm thick, with a vibrant, even yellow hue and a thin coating of crystallised sugar. The slices emitted a sweet, lemony aroma.
The slices had a dry, firm exterior that yielded easily when bitten into. The sugar coating provided an initial burst of sweetness, which lingered for several chews. The rind offered slight resistance compared to the softer membranes, but by the second half of each slice, it delivered a satisfying soft crunch. Mid bite, the initial sweetness transitioned to a zesty lemon profile, with the rind releasing a rich, lemon squash-like quality. This was complemented by a pleasant sourness from the dehydrated juice vesicles, creating a balanced and vibrant taste. Notably, the zesty and sour notes were free of any bitterness, and the oils from the rind added a subtle tingling sensation on the tongue.
Overall, these seemingly “ordinary” dried lemon slices thoroughly exceeded expectations with its complex and enjoyable flavour, making it well worth repurchasing.
This Nippon Yell Dried Fruit Ehime Lemon contained 23 g. It was produced in Japan and purchased in Sydney, Australia in 2024.