Guyabano To Calamansi: Exploring Fruits Of The Philippines

The Philippines, known for its diverse culture, rich history, and breathtaking scenery, is also a country abundant in tropical fruits. From sweet and succulent mangoes to tart and tangy calamansi, the Philippines boasts a wide variety of fruits that are not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. These fruits are not only enjoyed as a refreshing snack but are also used in traditional Filipino dishes, desserts, and even beverages. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which Filipino fruits to try. In this article, we will explore some of the best Filipino fruits that are worth adding to your "must-try" list. Whether you're a fruit enthusiast or simply looking to expand your palate, these Filipino fruits are sure to tantalise your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

Philippine Mangoes (Mangga)

In the Philippines, mangoes are commonly eaten fresh, either as a snack or as a dessert. They are also used in a wide variety of dishes, such as Filipino mango salad, smoothies, and desserts. One of the most popular ways to enjoy Philippine mangoes is in the form of a mango float, a Filipino dessert that is made with layers of graham crackers, whipped cream, and sliced mangoes. Mangoes are also commonly used as a topping for ice cream or as an ingredient in fruit shakes and smoothies. In addition to their delicious flavour, Philippine mangoes are also packed with nutrients. They are an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and fibre and are known for their antioxidant properties. Studies have also shown that mangoes may have anti-inflammatory and cholesterol-lowering effects.

Guyabano

Guyabano, also known as soursop, is a tropical fruit that is native to the Philippines and other parts of Central and South America. It is a green fruit with a spiky exterior and a sweet and tangy flavour that is similar to a mix of pineapple and citrus fruits.

Guyabano is rich in fibre, vitamin C, and antioxidants and has been traditionally used in Philippine and other cultures' medicine for its many potential health benefits. Some of these benefits include aiding digestion, boosting the immune system, and promoting healthy skin and hair.

In the Philippines, guyabano is typically eaten ripe and fresh or used to make juice, smoothies, and ice cream. The fruit is also sometimes used in baked goods and other desserts like guyabano cakes and tortas. The leaves are sometimes used to tenderise meat, while the bark and leaves are known to be used in herbal teas or other medicinal preparations.

Santol

Santol is a tropical fruit that is commonly found in Southeast Asia, including the Philippines. It is a round fruit with brown or yellowish skin that is slightly fuzzy, and its flesh is divided into several segments or lobes.

Santol is known for its unique flavour, which is a combination of sweet and sour, and its texture, which is slightly fibrous and crunchy. The flesh of the fruit is usually eaten fresh, but it can also be used in a variety of dishes and desserts.

In the Philippines, santol's ripe flesh is often eaten with a mixture of salt and sugar, which helps balance its flavour. Apart from that, the fruit is also commonly used to make marmalades or sweet-and-sour sauce, which is a popular condiment for grilled or fried meats.

Star Apple (Kaimito)

The star apple, also known as caimito, kaimito, or Chrysophyllum cainito, is a tropical fruit that is widely distributed across Southeast Asia, the Caribbean, and Central America. It is a fascinating fruit with smooth, shiny skin that comes in colours of green, purple, or yellow, and succulent, creamy white flesh with a unique star-like pattern that is both visually appealing and palatable.

In the Philippines, kaimito is a beloved fruit whose ripe flesh is often eaten as a refreshing snack or added to fruit salads. Its creamy pulp, which is white or purple depending on the variety, has a sweet, juicy flavour with subtle hints of vanilla, which makes it an ideal ingredient for smoothies, shakes, or even ice cream. While kaimito is not commonly used in cooking, it has been known to be used as a natural food dye for desserts or to add a touch of sweetness to savoury dishes. The leaves and bark of the kaimito tree have also been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as diarrhoea, fever, and stomachaches.

Pomelu (Suha)

Pomelo, scientifically known as Citrus maxima, is a citrus fruit that is commonly found in Southeast Asia. It is one of the largest citrus fruits, with a thick rind and sweet and tangy flesh that ranges from white to pink or red, depending on the variety. In the Philippines, it is locally known as "suha" and is a popular fruit that is widely enjoyed for its unique taste and health benefits.

Suha is a versatile fruit that can be eaten in various ways. It can be consumed fresh, juiced, or added to fruit salads, and it can also be used in desserts, jams, marmalades, or as a flavouring for drinks. Its bitter, slightly tart taste adds a distinctive flavour to any dish or drinks it is used in.

Aside from its delicious taste, pomelo is also a great source of vitamins and minerals. It is particularly rich in vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system and protect against diseases. It is also a good source of fibre, which aids in digestion and promotes a healthy gut.

Rambutan

Rambutan is a tropical fruit that is native to Southeast Asia, including the Philippines. It is a small, round fruit with spiky red or yellow skin that is covered in soft, hair-like protrusions. Inside, the fruit has translucent white flesh that is sweet and juicy, with a flavour that is similar to lychee.

Rambutan is typically eaten fresh as a snack or dessert, and it is often paired with other tropical fruits such as mango or pineapple. To eat a rambutan, you first need to remove the spiky exterior by cutting or tearing it open with your hands. Inside, you will find a single seed that is covered in a thin, white layer of flesh. The flesh is edible and has a slightly sweet, nutty flavour.

Durian

Durian is a fruit that is native to Southeast Asia, including the Philippines, and mostly grows in Mindanao. It is known for its distinctive odour and unique flavour, which is a combination of sweet, savoury, and slightly bitter notes. The fruit is large, with a hard, spiky exterior that is difficult to open.

In the Philippines, durian is often eaten fresh, either on its own or with rice. Its pulp can also be used in various dishes, including ice cream, pastries, and candies. Some Filipinos also use the fruit's seeds in cooking, roasting or boiling them to make a savoury snack.

Durian is also known for its health benefits. It is a good source of vitamin C, which is essential for a healthy immune system, and it contains several minerals, including potassium, magnesium, and iron. Additionally, durian contains antioxidants that help protect the body against cell damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

While durian has a strong smell that some find unpleasant, Filipinos enjoy its unique flavour and consider it to be a delicacy. In fact, the fruit is so beloved in the Philippines that it is sometimes referred to as the "king of tropical fruits". If you're willing to brave the smell, durian is definitely a fruit worth trying for its taste and health benefits.

Calamansi

Calamansi, also known as Philippine lime, is a small citrus fruit that is native to Southeast Asia, particularly the Philippines. It is a popular ingredient in Filipino cuisine, and it is used as a flavouring or garnish for many dishes. Calamansi is small and round, about the size of a ping-pong ball. It has a thin, glossy skin that is green when unripe and turns yellow-orange as it matures. Its flesh is juicy and acidic, with a tart and tangy flavour that is similar to a combination of lime and lemon. Calamansi is also known for its health benefits. It is rich in vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system and protect against diseases. It also contains antioxidants that help protect the body against cell damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.