The star apple or caimito (Chrysophyllum cainito) is a tropical fruit whose origin is the Caribbean and Central America. Although not hysterically dense it is very similar to the Sapotaceae family and grows best in warm climate.
Origen of star apple:
Star apple tree is understood to have been grown in the tropical part of Caribbean and Central America. Originally, it was grown and used by natives for several centuries as a source of sweetener and nutrients. Its wild uses began to expand to other regions of the Americas and later to Southeast Asia . Africa as well as other regions of the tropics and subtropics which favored its sweet potato warmth and humidity.
The use of the star apple today at the present time is found in the Philippines and Vietnam, Thailand and many other parts of West Africa where it had become a staple in many households.
Varieties of star apple:
Star apple has many kinds of types or classifications and the differences of these kinds are dependent . Widely on the color of the outer skin and pulp. There are two principle varieties of this apple, the purple star apple and the green.
And it has two types of flesh: purplish or white for the purple scarlet skin and translucent white for the green scarlet skin. There are two kinds of honeydew, one green and the other purple, although many people observe that the purple kind is a touch sweeter.
There are hybrid and regional cultivars also with variation in taste, size and preferred climatic condition. These variations make star apple fruits be used in many parts of the world in the preparation of a meal.
Nutrition value star apple:
Star apple is a tasty tropical fruit that contains numerous nutritional value . That helps to improve health. It contains carbohydrates useful for digestion, vitamin C for immune system. Vitamin A for good eyesight, potassium for proper heart and kidney functions, and calcium and iron necessary for bone health and oxygen carriage.
Packed with antioxidants, that help to fight free radicals and ill-effects there from, thus enhancing general health. The product contain natural sugars, which gives a quick energy boost while it has low fat content, making it suitable for health conscious people.
Also, since star apple fruit has good hydrating effects and includes a mix of amino acids for skincare .It is a healthy way to add nutritional value as well as flavor to any diet.
It also serves as a good source of dietary fiber; which makes it a good commodity to enhance digestion among individuals. It contains vitamin C which enhances the immunity and the skin while vitamin A which enhances vision and cell metabolism. It also contains moderate amounts of Potassium necessary in the regulation of high blood pressure and healthy hearts.
Characteristics of star apple :
Star apple is the common name given to the tropical tree of the flowering family, which has an alluring look and characterizing features. Depending on the type of auberges, or as it is often known, eggplant, it is generally spherical or irregularly round in shape, glossy on the outside and could possibly be green or purple in color.
Central to the fruit is its pentagonal, cored structure that is clearly visible when one cross-sections the fruit. It’s tender and tasty with scanty flavor and is white transparent colored to purple in the outer part having small flat seeds.
This tree is a permanent green one bearing leathery, shiny dark green leaves that has goldish bottom. It is not only of striking appearance but also has a delicious and a slightly sweet crunchy pulp that is loved in tropical climates. Star apple is a tropical numerical whose fruit is round, with a shiny skin on the outside and a star shape in the middle once cut. It varies in color from green to deep purple .
The fruit has soft, juicy pulp that is sweet, fragrant and flesh which may be white, pink or purple depending on the variety. It contains small, flat seeds within pulp as a part of its makeup. The evergreen tree develops shiny, dark green leathery foliage with golden under surface, which makes it an attractive plant. A fruit which is adds appeal to its taste and colorful view, the star apple is very popular in the tropics for its fresh eating and for use in Marinda or desserts.
Uses :
This tree bears fruits known as star apple the fruits are used in cooking as well as other uses in tradition. The fruit is sweet and fleshy and therefore taken fresh is delicious, especially when chilled for better feel of the sweetness.
They are also eaten raw in fruit salads contributing the fibrous – sweet texture and can be used in smoothies, juices or milk shakes. In desserts, jam, jelly, ice cream, and syrup are made from star apple to make its flavor suit different recipes.
Star apple consumed in many refreshing associated with drinks especially in tropical areas where this fruit grows in abundance. It is high time, and it can be eaten with a spoon like an orange or can be juicy and sweet used to prepare smoothest
If you want to add a tropical taste to it, one can put bananas, pineapples and mangos. Star apple juice can be made where the pulp is crushed, and added to water or milk to make a juicy and appetizing drink.
Dessert of star apple:
Star apple is preferred for use in many desert preparations due its delectable sweet, juicy and fragrant pulp. It can be made into ice cream, sorbets and various foggily type products giving a refreshing coconut taste. Besides, it can be used to prepare fruit salads, bringing perfect combination with other exotic fruits and adding a nice touch.