Are you and your kids a little over the same ol' fruit plate? Or perhaps you're not quite ready to let go of summery vibes just yet. If so, then Dragon Fruit might just be the new fruit for you!
This exotic looking and magical sounding fruit not only brightens up kitchen countertops and fruit plates, but it's also incredibly good for you and your kids.
Sometimes also known as "Pitaya", this is the fruit of a climbing cactus that is native to Central and South America. It's also commercially cultivated in South-East Asia. That means it's possible to find Dragon Fruit in-store in the exotic-fruit section of many supermarkets, almost year-round.
Look, taste, and feel
Dragon Fruit has a distinct exotic oval-shaped look, roughly the size of an orange, with pinky-red peel and wavy green leaves. Its flesh can be pink or magenta-colored, but that of the more commonly found Dragon Fruit is white. With all kinds being sprinkled with tiny black edible seeds, similar to those found in kiwi fruit.
Sometimes referred to as a "Strawberry Pear" because of its delicate berry, watermelon, kiwi, and pear blend of flavour, the Dragon Fruit has a similar texture to watermelon.
The Dragon Fruit is usually happy to adorn your kitchen counter for a few days, but longer than that and it's best stored in the fridge. And can be frozen for up to 3 months.
If your local supermarket does not carry them, try specialty South American or Asian markets. You'll know it's ready to eat if it has a slight softness (like an avo) when gently squeezed. Otherwise leave to ripen at home, or look out for pitaya puree in the freezer section of your supermarket.
