I was shocked to turn the corner at my local Food Emporium (which normally doesn't stock even the slightly exotic foods like fish sauce or farro) and see these tentacles reaching out at me!
After a quick photo and a little research I found this crazy looking food actually has plenty of everyday uses... Any guesses as to what it's called??
UPDATE: You all are a tough crowd to stump! You were right on with your guesses: this scary looking piece of citrus is a Buddha's Hand citron. Like a lemon, but minus the juice (and plus a tangle of fingers!), a Buddah's Hand is great for making fresh zest, candied peel, cocktail garnishes, or, as one commenter pointed out, apartment decor!
From: Andrea M | 12/14/10 at 11:57 am
Buddha's hand! I recently noticed this fruit for the first time at my local supermarket too!
From: jill | 12/14/10 at 12:04 pm
it's called buddha's hand or citron
From: e.ho | 12/14/10 at 12:08 pm
Buddha's Hand!
From: VeggieGirl | 12/14/10 at 12:22 pm
Yep, Buddha's hand
From: Archana | 12/14/10 at 4:41 pm
Yes Buddha's Hand! I actually saw it at Whole Foods this weekend and they let me try a bite. Too bitter for my taste, but hoping to double it as apartment decor...maybe?
From: Randy | 12/19/10 at 11:33 pm
Buddha's hand is also given as sign of good luck.