5 Exotic Fruits You’ve Probably Never Heard Of!

Did you know there’s a whole world of fruits most people don’t know about? Nothing like the ones we’re used to, these are unique, unusual, and sometimes even weird in appearance. They come with many health benefits and are just as, if not more, nutritious and delicious. Often called exotic as they’re less common in everyday supermarkets and tend to grow in warmer, tropical regions. In this article, we'll discover five exotic fruits you've probably never heard of but you're definitely going to want to try!

1. Durian

The Durian fruit originates in Southeast Asia. It is known for its spiky exterior and its infamous strong, unpleasant smell, which has led to it being banned in some hotels and public places in Southeast Asia.

This hasn’t stopped it from being a popular fruit in the region, where it is mainly used in desserts such as ice cream and cakes. The inside has a yellow hue, and the taste is a mix of sweet and savory. It is also nutrient-dense, containing vitamins C and B as well as various minerals.

2. Rambutan

This fruit comes from the rambutan tree, which is native to Southeast Asia. Its name translates to “hair” in local languages, accurately describing its outer appearance that resembles hair. The rambutan’s outer layer has red skin, and once cut open, it reveals a white oval shape that almost resembles a boiled egg.

It is a delicious fruit with a flavor similar to that of grapes and has a unique gummy-like texture. It can be added to fruit salads, used in smoothies, desserts, and even cocktails.

3. Pitaya

Pitaya, also known as dragon fruit, draws attention with its vibrant color and scales that resemble those of a reptile. It is originally from Central and South America but gained popularity in Southeast Asia and has also become common in the United States, as it can be grown on cactus plants. Once cut open, it reveals small black seeds embedded in white flesh, although the inside can sometimes be pink. It is often described as having a texture similar to kiwi.

Dragon fruit is commonly used in breakfast buffets, fruit bowls, and sometimes ice cream. It has a mildly sweet flavor, and some say it’s a mix of kiwi and pear. It is also a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.

4. Buddhas Hand

Buddha’s hand is a citrus fruit from the citron family, and it gets its name from its unusual form. Its finger-like shape resembles a human hand. It does not produce juice or contain pulp and is mainly used for its fragrance or for flavouring that can be compared to lemons. Its shredded zest works well in marinades, salad dressings, and even baked goods.

5. African Horned Cucumber

The African horned cucumber originates in the southern region of Africa, in countries such as Botswana, Namibia, Eswatini, and others. It is oval in shape and, when unripe, is dark green in color. When ripe, it turns bright orange. The inside is lime green with a jelly-like consistency. Its flavor varies and can range from sweet cucumber to a combination of banana, kiwi, and citrus, depending on how ripe it is at the time.

Depending on the region and tradition, some people eat it to enjoy the taste, some use it according to old superstitious beliefs to keep spirits away, and others use it for medicinal purposes such as pain relief.

And that wraps up our list of five exotic fruits from around the world.

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It’s amazing how many unusual fruits are out there, each with its own flavor, story, and history. Have you ever tried any of these? Or is there one that caught your eye and made you curious to taste it?