Babaco
Vasconcellea × heilborniiA fruit native to Ecuador, distantly related to papaya, with a five-sided star-shaped cross-section and no seeds at all. It has a flavor between pineapple, strawberry, and papaya, and can be eaten with its peel.
What Is Babaco?
Babaco is the fruit of a plant from the papaya family, native to the Andean valleys of Ecuador. It is thought to be a natural hybrid, and because it does not reproduce by seed in nature, it is entirely seedless.
Its shape is long-oval with five distinct ridges on the surface; when cut crosswise, it forms a characteristic star pattern. Its skin is thin and edible, so the fruit can be sliced and eaten with the skin on.
Nutritional Value of Babaco
100 grams of babaco contains about 24 kcal of energy; it is low-calorie, high in vitamin C and carries a moderate amount of fiber. Values vary with ripeness and are approximate.
How Should Babaco Be Consumed?
Babaco is consumed as part of a balanced diet, as a fruit-group food alongside other food groups.
This information is general; babaco is a food, not a substitute for medical treatment.
How to Choose Babaco?
A good babaco is one whose skin has started turning from green to yellow, that yields gently under light pressure, and has no bruises or blemishes.
- The skin should be turning from green to yellow (a sign of ripening)
- It should yield gently under light pressure, not be too hard or too soft
- The surface should have no bruise or rot marks
How to Store Babaco?
Unripe babaco is ripened by leaving it at room temperature for a few days; once ripe, it keeps its freshness in the refrigerator for a few more days.
Using Babaco in the Kitchen
Babaco is most often used sliced and raw, in fruit salads, smoothies, and freshly squeezed fruit juice; since its skin is thin, it can also be eaten unpeeled.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are babaco and papaya the same thing?
No; babaco is a different plant from the papaya family. Unlike papaya, it is seedless and has a milder, tangier taste.
Is babaco eaten with its skin?
Yes, its skin is thin and soft, and after being washed thoroughly it can be eaten together with the skin.
Is babaco found in Turkey?
It is imported in limited quantities; it can be found in gourmet markets and shops selling exotic fruit, though it is not common.