Cherimoya

Imagine biting into a fruit that tastes of an exotic pineapple, mango, and strawberry custard – sound good? The Cherimoya fruit is quite common throughout the Caribbean, but this fruit originally came from Peru and Ecuador. Cherimoyas have a flavor all their own, and Mark Twain himself once dubbed this tasty fruit “deliciousness itself.” If that description isn’t enough to appeal to you, perhaps the ways in which the Cherimoya is used throughout the Caribbean will.

Many tropical drinks are made with the Cherimoya fruit, but islanders tend to eat this “bit of deliciousness” all on its own. In fact, the Cherimoya is one fruit that rarely needs any other added ingredient. Due to its heavenly taste, this fruit has been a favorite within the Caribbean for quite some time now, but it is not a fruit easily grown. The Cherimoya must live in tropical places though it needs to have a cold spell once in awhile in order to thrive. Some parts of the Caribbean are just right for growing Cherimoyas, and within these areas this fruit is highly coveted.

When you try a Cherimoya, look for a fruit that is similar in resemblance to the avocado, and if you spot a brown Cherimoya do not eat it. When this fruit turns a dark shade of brown it is over-ripe. Also, do not eat the seeds of the Cherimoya since they are poisonous, and try to avoid the skin as well. Otherwise, the flesh of this fruit is well worth a try, and those who first bite into a Cherimoya cannot often put it down. There are so many delicious foods that come from the Caribbean, it is nearly impossible to eat them all. But, if you love sweet fruit, the Cherimoya is something that you will never forget.