Exotic Fruits from around the World

Fruits are not only delicious and nutritious, but they also come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and flavors. While many of us are familiar with common fruits like apples, bananas, and oranges, there are many exotic fruits from around the world that are less well-known but equally delightful. In this article, we will explore some of the most exotic fruits from different parts of the world.

Durian

Durian is a tropical fruit that is native to Southeast Asia. It is famous for its strong smell, which some people describe as pungent or even foul. Despite its smell, durian is a highly prized fruit in many parts of Asia and is considered the "king of fruits" by many.

The durian is a large, spiky fruit with a green or brownish outer shell. Inside, it has a soft, creamy flesh that is yellow or orange in color. The taste of durian is difficult to describe, but it is often said to be a combination of sweet, savory, and slightly bitter flavors.

Durian is a versatile fruit that can be eaten fresh or used in a variety of dishes, including desserts, smoothies, and even savory dishes. However, due to its strong odor, durian is banned in many public places and hotels in Southeast Asia.

Rambutan

Rambutan is another tropical fruit that is native to Southeast Asia. It is a small, red or yellow fruit with a spiky outer shell that resembles a sea urchin. Inside, it has a sweet, juicy flesh that is similar in texture to a grape.

Rambutan is often eaten fresh, but it can also be used in jams, jellies, and desserts. In addition to its delicious taste, rambutan is also rich in antioxidants and vitamin C.

Dragon Fruit

Dragon fruit, also known as pitaya, is a vibrant fruit that is native to Central and South America. It has a bright pink or yellow outer shell with green scales that give it a distinctive appearance. Inside, it has a white or pink flesh that is speckled with tiny black seeds.

Dragon fruit has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that is often compared to a cross between a pear and a kiwi. It can be eaten fresh, used in smoothies and cocktails, or even grilled or roasted.

Jackfruit

Jackfruit is a large, spiky fruit that is native to Southeast Asia. It is the largest fruit that grows on a tree and can weigh up to 80 pounds. Inside, it has a fibrous, yellow flesh that is often used as a meat substitute in vegan and vegetarian dishes.

Jackfruit has a sweet, fruity flavor that is similar to a combination of pineapple, mango, and banana. It can be eaten fresh or used in a variety of dishes, including curries, stews, and even desserts.

Kiwano

Kiwano, also known as horned melon, is a unique fruit that is native to Africa. It has a bright orange or yellow outer shell that is covered in spikes or horns. Inside, it has a green or yellow flesh that is filled with small, edible seeds.

Kiwano has a sweet, tart flavor that is often compared to a combination of cucumber, kiwi, and banana. It can be eaten fresh or used in salads, salsas, and smoothies.

Mangosteen

Mangosteen is a tropical fruit that is native to Southeast Asia. It has a dark purple outer shell that is smooth and glossy. Inside, it has a white, juicy flesh that is similar in texture to a lychee.

Mangosteen has a sweet, tangy flavor that is often compared to a combination of strawberry, peach, and grape. It is highly prized for its delicious taste and health benefits, as it is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

Mangosteen is often eaten fresh, but it can also be used in jams, jellies, and desserts. In some parts of Southeast Asia, it is also used as a traditional medicine to treat various ailments.

Cherimoya

Cherimoya is a tropical fruit that is native to South America. It has a green, scaly outer shell that is similar in appearance to an artichoke. Inside, it has a soft, creamy flesh that is white in color and dotted with black seeds.

Cherimoya has a sweet, delicate flavor that is often compared to a combination of pineapple, banana, and vanilla. It can be eaten fresh or used in desserts, smoothies, and ice creams.

Persimmon

Persimmon is a fruit that is native to Korea, China and Japan but is now grown in many parts of the world. It has a bright orange or yellowish-red outer skin and a soft, juicy flesh that is sweet and slightly tangy.

There are two main types of persimmons: astringent and non-astringent. Astringent persimmons are high in tannins and can be very bitter if eaten before they are fully ripe. Non-astringent persimmons are lower in tannins and can be eaten while they are still firm.

Persimmons can be eaten fresh or used in a variety of dishes, including salads, baked goods, and jams. They are also rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants.

Guava

Guava is a tropical fruit that is native to Mexico, Central America, and South America. It has a green or yellowish outer skin and a pink or white flesh that is filled with small, edible seeds.

Guava has a sweet, tangy flavor that is often compared to a combination of pear, strawberry, and grapefruit. It can be eaten fresh or used in a variety of dishes, including smoothies, salads, and desserts.

Guava is also rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. In some parts of the world, the leaves and bark of the guava tree are also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.

Korean Melon

Korean melon, also known as chamoe or golden melon, is a popular fruit in Korea and other parts of Asia. It has a pale yellow outer skin that is covered in a delicate netting. Inside, it has a juicy, white flesh that is sweet and slightly tangy.

Korean melon is often eaten fresh and is a popular snack in Korea. It is also used in desserts and drinks, such as shaved ice and smoothies.

In addition to its delicious taste, Korean melon is also rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. It is a low-calorie fruit that is perfect for those who are watching their weight.

Conclusion

Exotic fruits from around the world offer a wide variety of flavors and textures that are sure to delight any palate. Whether you prefer sweet, tangy, or savory flavors, there is an exotic fruit out there for you to try.

In this article, we explored some of the most exotic fruits from different parts of the world, including durian from Southeast Asia, rambutan from Southeast Asia, dragon fruit from Central and South America, jackfruit from Southeast Asia, kiwano from Africa, mangosteen from Southeast Asia, cherimoya from South America, persimmon from Korea, China and Japan, guava from Mexico, Central America, and South America, and Korean melon from Korea.