If you need a break from the hustle and bustle of life, but an island vacation simply is
not in the budget – bring the tropical getaway to your kitchen.
There is something so magical about the flavors of tropical fruit, they are some of the
closest things to heaven on earth. These thirsty quenching fruits are instantly
reminiscent of warm summer evenings with beach sand between your toes.
Coconut, watermelon, mango, papaya, jack fruit, and pineapple are some of the most
flavor-filled fruits on the planet and they all deserve far more attention than just being
tossed into a fruit salad.
To make the most of these tropical beauties in your kitchen, follow these seven tips
below:
1.Pineapple
Pineapple is one of the most versatile fruits, and once you slice one open and taste it you will instantly understand.
There is no better way to add a touch of island flavor to a dish than with pineapple.
As wild as it seems on the outside, do not be intimidated by this divine fruit. Instantly
enhance the flavor of stir-fries, tacos, salads, and wraps, and add a taste of the tropics with this dynamic flavor powerhouse.
2. Watermelon
If there were ever a competition to decide on a fruit that best describes summer,
watermelon would win hands-down.
This juicy tropical fruit is great on its own or in a yummy salad, but there are several
different ways to prepare it. Next to something savory like beef or chicken, watermelon
truly shines. Watermelon can be sliced, diced, blended, grilled, or marinated – all
versions of this pink and green fruit are delectable!
3. Rambutan
If you have never heard of rambutan, you have been missing out.
It is a relative of the lychee and has a similarly perfumed grape-esque flesh. Much like
the lychee, rambutans have a leathery shell that can be broken open and peeled like an
egg.
The difference between this fruit and its lychee cousin is that the rambutan has tendril-
like protrusions from its shell. Rambutans have a floral, tropical taste similar to lychee
and can be added to smoothies and desserts.
4. Mango
Mangoes are the color of sunshine and happily bring a floral and juicy element of
summer to any dish.
They can be added to tacos, desserts, or salads for a kick of flavor. Mangoes can also
get mixed with chili and lime to create a sweet and savory sauce that makes the perfect
addition to several meals.
When buying mangoes, look for a fruit that gives gently when lightly squeezed; those
are the ripe ones. If possible, choose ones that are heavy for their size because those
will be juicier.
A simpler method would be to order a fresh fruit delivery online. There is a wide range
of delicious varieties – and only the freshest fruit gets selected for delivery.
5. Dragon Fruit
Dragon fruit may initially look like a flower about to blossom, but underneath those
spiky, pinkish-red layers is a delicious treat.
The spiked skin of this Asian fruit is not typically eaten, but both the seeds and flesh can
be enjoyed with lime. This fruit is easy to prepare, simply remove the skin and slice the
fruit into chunks.
Dragon fruit is somewhere between kiwi, berries, and watermelon in flavor. When
choosing some, look for fruit with brightly colored, smooth skin and ensure it has just a
slight give to it.
6. Papaya
This delicious fruit family includes the yellow-fleshed fruit called pawpaw, and the pink-
fleshed fruit called papaya.
Both versions are mild and sweet, best served with a spritz of lime or lemon juice.
If you want a savorier note to your dish, cook diced chicken breasts with seasoning and
toss through cubes of ripe papaya. For a quick and cheeky dessert, slice a pawpaw in
half and add a quick squeeze of lime, a splash of your favorite rum, and a sprinkle of sugar.
7. Passion fruit
As surprising as this is, passion-fruit is part of the berry family.
It is a small fruit filled with sweetly tart pulp and tiny black edible seeds. This delicious
fruit is typically used in drinks and desserts, but it truly shines as a cheesecake topper.
Making a cheesecake does require some know-how and finesse, but a store-bought
version will work just fine. Slice the fruits in half, scoop out the seeds and pulp, and
press it through a fine sieve.
Once done, reduce in a saucepan over low to medium heat. Allow the mixture to cool
before spreading the coulis over the top of a New York cheesecake.
To End
Tropical and exotic fruits are widely used in cooking these days, and these fruits are not
just delicious but ultra-nutritious too. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants,
tropical fruits are gems in the kitchen!
