When in Europe, you’ll need to head to the many tempting bakeries on the continent to satisfy your sweet tooth. But in tropical countries in Southeast Asia, South America, and the Caribbean, the sweet fix often comes in the way of fresh fruit. The world is full of strange and exotic fruits that we don’t see every day in a lot of western countries. Keep reading to find out what they are!
Found In China, India, And Sri Lanka: Wood Apple
Although many Indian foods that you need to try come in the form of curries and street food, one local delicacy that should be on your list is the wood apple. Also found in China and Sri Lanka, the wood apple is quite different from a regular apple. The smell is much more potent and the taste tends to be stronger. This fruit also comes with a sticky brown pulp and white seeds inside.
The beauty of wood apple is not necessarily in the taste but rather in the health benefits. The fruit promotes digestive health and can help with a number of ailments including indigestion. It is also believed to fight against viral infections and can boost your immunity. Definitely worth traveling for!
Found In Southeast Asia, Hawaii, And The Caribbean: Mangosteen
Another exotic and unusual fruit from around the world is the mangosteen, which you’ll find in tropical destinations such as many of the countries of Southeast Asia and the Caribbean. You’ll also get a chance to sample this delicious fruit in Hawaii. Unlike other international and exotic fruits, the allure of mangosteen is definitely in the taste!
The taste of this rare fruit is like a combination of pineapple and tangerine. In some countries, they also serve mangosteen tea and you might even be able to purchase some to bring home with you. Mangosteen also has a few health benefits, including its high antioxidant levels which can help to boost heart health and even prevent cancer.
Found In South America: Surinam Cherry
Found in the countries of South America’s eastern coast, the Surinam cherry tastes similar to the most popular kind of cherries in that it can be sweet or sour. The cherries that are dark red tend to be sweeter while those that are yellow or orange are usually sour. In countries like Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay, they are either eaten raw or made into jellies and jams.
The Surinam cherry is sometimes referred to as the Brazilian cherry, the Cayenne cherry, or the pitanga, among other names. In terms of health benefits, it is packed full of vitamin C and vitamin A and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Found In Sub-Saharan Africa: Horned Melon
Kind of like a combination of kiwifruit and cucumber, the horned melon is another exotic fruit from around the world. Now it is grown in countries right around the world, including Portugal, Italy, Australia, and the United States, but it is native to Sub-Saharan Africa.
Sometimes called the kiwano, the fruit carries an extremely refreshing taste with hints of kiwi, cucumber, and zucchini. It is often eaten by cutting it in half and scooping out the pulp with a spoon. Horned melon contains a variety of essential nutrients, promotes healthy red blood cell production, and can help to regulate blood sugar.
Found In Tropical South America: Rollinia Deliciosa
The rollinia deliciosa is found in tropical South America and can be compared to a custard apple. Also known as birbia, this fruit turns yellow as it ripens but can become black when handled. Food For Net describes it as tasting like lemon meringue pie so that’s definitely worth traveling for!
Because it has a short shelf life, it can be difficult to find, even in South America. It’s also high in protein, making it a filling snack, and is a great source of vitamin C and other essentials such as potassium and magnesium.