By: Judy Davie - The Food Coach
 Move over peaches and nectarines it's time to make room in the fruit bowl for custard apples.
Custard apple, a delightfully sweet and creamy fruit with a unique flavor and numerous health benefits. While it might not be as ubiquitous as apples or bananas, custard apples are worth seeking out for their irresistible taste and the wealth of goodness they bring to the table.
What Exactly Are Custard Apples?
Also known as "cherimoya" in some parts of the world, custard apples are native to South America but are now cultivated in various tropical and subtropical regions across the globe, including the hinterland of Byron Bay. These fruits typically have a green, bumpy exterior that hides a soft, creamy flesh inside, dotted with shiny black seeds. The flavour is often described as a delightful combination of banana, pineapple, and vanilla, making it a truly unique taste experience.
The Sweet Symphony of Flavour
If you're tired of the same old fruits and crave something different, custard apples are here to delight your taste buds. Their creamy texture and sweet flavor make them a perfect addition to fruit salads, smoothies, desserts, or simply enjoyed on their own. Every bite is a symphony of tropical flavors that will transport you to paradise with its indulgent taste.
Nutritional Powerhouse
But custard apples aren't just about taste; they also pack a nutritional punch. Rich in essential vitamins and minerals, custard apples are a fantastic addition to a healthy diet. They are a good source of vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune function and skin health. Additionally, custard apples contain vitamin B6, which plays a crucial role in metabolism and brain function.
Moreover, custard apples are loaded with dietary fibre, which aids digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness, making them a great snack option for those looking to maintain a healthy weight. Plus, they are naturally low in calories, making them a guilt-free indulgence.
Health Benefits Galore
Beyond their delicious taste and nutritional value, custard apples offer a plethora of health benefits. Here are just a few reasons why you might want to make room for them in your diet:
Heart Health: Custard apples are rich in potassium, a mineral that helps regulate blood pressure and may reduce the risk of heart disease.
Digestive Health: Thanks to their high fibre content, custard apples promote healthy digestion and prevent constipation.
Anti-inflammatory Properties: Custard apples contain compounds with anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the body and lower the risk of chronic diseases.
Bone Health: The calcium and magnesium found in custard apples are essential for maintaining strong and healthy bones.
How to Enjoy Custard Apples
Now that you're convinced of the wonders of custard apples, you might be wondering how to incorporate them into your diet. Fortunately, there are countless ways to enjoy this versatile fruit:
Eat Them Fresh: Simply scoop out the soft flesh with a spoon and enjoy it as a refreshing snack.
Blend Into Smoothies: Add custard apple flesh to your favorite smoothie recipe for a creamy, tropical twist.
In Desserts: Use custard apples to make delicious desserts like ice cream, pudding, or custard for a decadent treat.
In Salads: Add sliced custard apples to fruit salads or green salads for a burst of sweetness and texture.
In Conclusion
Custard apples may not be the most well-known fruit, but once you taste their heavenly flavour and experience their myriad health benefits, you'll wonder why they aren't more popular. They are not in season for long so enjoy them while you can.
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