Wait, this is a fruit? This is not the gnarly sci-fi creature from your nightmares. While it has no pulp, juice, or seeds, its inner solid pith is actually sweet. It might be a claw, but its lavender smell is everything.

Buddhist Monks originally brought this "Fingered Citron" from India centuries ago. In China, they display it for good luck. In Japan, it's a popular gift at New Year's for good fortune. Be brave, the Buddha’s Hands is not here to eat you.

It's all about the sweet rind. Break a tentacle--so odd--peel it and infuse it into an adult beverage. Make it into a candied treat. Add sweet lemony flavor to your baked goods. So here it is. Your talking point. Your new centerpiece. Your rare potpourri. Your most unique ingredient and gift. Ever.

When life gives you weird lemons, it might just actually be Buddha’s Hands.