ALBAWABA Summer is a season of abundance, particularly when it comes to fresh and exotic fruits. While everyone is familiar with the likes of watermelon and mango, there are some unique and lesser-known fruits that make their appearance only during the warmer months.
Here are six weird and wonderful fruits you should look out for this summer.
1. Rambutan
Originating from Southeast Asia, the rambutan is a peculiar-looking fruit with a hairy, spiky exterior. Don’t let its appearance deter you; inside, you’ll find a translucent, juicy flesh with a sweet and slightly acidic flavor. Similar to lychee and longan, rambutan is a refreshing treat perfect for hot summer days. It is rich in vitamin C, calcium, and iron, making it both a tasty and nutritious snack.
2. Mangosteen
Known as the "queen of fruits," mangosteen is a tropical delight found in Southeast Asia and some parts of the Caribbean during the summer months. This fruit has a tough, purple rind encasing segments of white, juicy flesh. Mangosteen is praised for its sweet, tangy flavor and is packed with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins. It's often eaten fresh, but can also be found in juices and desserts.
3. Salak (Snake Fruit)
Salak, commonly referred to as snake fruit due to its reddish-brown scaly skin, is another summer fruit native to Indonesia and other parts of Southeast Asia. Peel away the skin to reveal a firm, crunchy flesh that is sweet with a hint of tanginess. Salak is rich in potassium, beta-carotene, and dietary fiber, making it a healthy addition to your summer fruit basket.
4. Jabuticaba
Jabuticaba, often called the Brazilian grape tree, is a unique fruit that grows directly on the trunk and branches of its tree. These small, dark purple fruits resemble grapes and are harvested in the summer. Jabuticaba has a sweet, tart flavor and is commonly used in jellies, wines, and liqueurs. It is high in vitamin C, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties, making it both delicious and beneficial for health.
5. Cherimoya
Cherimoya, also known as custard apple, is a creamy, custard-like fruit that thrives in the warm climates of South America and parts of Spain during summer. The green, scaly skin hides a soft, white flesh with a sweet, tropical flavor reminiscent of banana, pineapple, and strawberry. Cherimoya is a rich source of vitamins, particularly vitamin C and B6, as well as dietary fiber and potassium.
6. Kiwano (Horned Melon)
The kiwano, or horned melon, is a bizarre-looking fruit with a spiky orange-yellow rind and a vibrant green, jelly-like interior. Native to Africa, kiwano is now grown in various parts of the world during the summer months. Its taste is a cross between cucumber, kiwi, and banana, offering a refreshing and slightly tart experience. Kiwano is packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, and dietary fiber, making it a nutritious addition to your summer diet.
