What is Dragon Fruit?
Dragon Fruit – If you look at it, it is increasingly common to find new fruits and vegetables when we go to the market to do the shopping. Different and exotic products quickly catch our attention due to their texture, color, or shape, since we have never seen or tasted them before. So it is the case of the dragon
Where did the Dragon Fruit originate from?
The origin of this new fruit is in Latin America, mainly in Mexico. However, today its cultivation has spread to more countries in the area and even to regions of China and Vietnam. For centuries, the settlers of these countries fell in love with this fruit and exported them to other sites that they were conquering.
Characteristics of the Dragon Fruit (Pitahaya)
The pitahaya or dragon fruit, as we said, is an exotic fruit of intense color, dark red, pink, or yellow, with an interior that can be white or pink, depending on the variety of cactus from which it collects. Its flavor is delightful and with a touch reminiscent of kiwi or papaya and even avocado.
We can separate two main types of dragon fruit :
- Yellow dragon fruit: Yellow and with thorns. It has a higher sugar content, so its flavor is sweeter. Due to its shape and color, it is usually reminiscent of pineapples.
- Red dragon fruit: Unlike the yellow variety, it does not have thorns but bracts. It is slightly larger and has a more rigid crust.
Another of the peculiarities of this dragon fruit is that its flowering period lasts one night, during which time the fruit pollinates and grows.
The flowers emit a delightful smell that can be easily perceived wherever the plant grows, but it loses suddenly as soon as it is cut.
Some Properties of Dragon Fruit
Composed mainly of water, pitahaya contains essential minerals such as iron, calcium, phosphorus, and an infinity of vitamins (vitamins B1, B2, B3, and C) perfect for keeping our body healthy. It indicates people who suffer from high cholesterol and those concerned about strengthening their immune system.
- Pitaya is a diuretic fruit that prevents fluid retention and promotes hydration.
- As a source of vitamin C. It is considered a fruit with antioxidant properties, which slows down the signs of aging on your skin. It also fights the risk of chronic degenerative and cardiovascular disease. In addition. It will be one of your best allies if you need to lose weight because its caloric profile is minimal.
- The seeds present in 60% of the pulp of this exotic fruit improve the intestinal process and prevent constipation.
- Captin is the main component in the seeds of the dragon fruit or pitaya, and it reduces the risk of arrhythmias and improves the functioning of the heart.
How can we consume Dragon Fruit (Pitaya)?
The best way to eat dragon fruit is to cut it in half and scoop out the pulp with a spoon. But, yes, we need to be careful if we do not want to eat any of the numerous black seeds that it contains and that intermingle with its sweet and aromatic pulp.
It is refreshing and delicious in frozen juices and fruit salad, and a smoothie with an exotic touch. Most cooks can be encouraged to prepare a delightful pitahaya jam. Without a doubt, the most original spot on any table.
In addition to being raw, there are different ways to eat cooked pitahaya without losing any of its properties. The most common is to find it as a garnish for specific dishes or as an ingredient that accompanies some salads.
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