Dragon Fruit

What Is Dragon Fruit?

Dragon fruit (pitaya, Hylocereus undatus) is the fruit of a cactus species native to Central America. Inside its pink or yellow, scaly-looking skin is a white or red flesh dotted with small black seeds.

Although its appearance is striking, its taste is quite mild and not very sweet; it is likened to a taste between kiwi and pear. In Turkey it is found imported in markets.

Nutritional Value of Dragon Fruit

Dragon fruit is a moderately caloric fruit; 100 grams contains about 57 kcal of energy and 3.1 g of fiber. Its vitamin and mineral density is, contrary to its appearance, more modest than many other fruits.

What Are the Benefits of Dragon Fruit?

With its fiber content, dragon fruit is one of the exotic fruits considered part of a balanced diet. Its high water content makes it a light and refreshing snack.

This information is general; dragon fruit is a food, not a substitute for medical treatment.

How to Choose Dragon Fruit?

A ripe dragon fruit has brightly colored skin, gives slightly when pressed, and its scale tips are slightly dried.

• The skin should be bright pink/yellow; pale or wrinkled skin indicates staleness.
• It should give slightly when pressed, neither too firm nor too soft.
• Green scale tips on the skin indicate freshness; completely dried-brown tips indicate over-ripeness.

How to Store Dragon Fruit?

Dragon fruit stays fresh in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. After cutting, it can be stored in an airtight container for 1-2 days; it can also be cubed and frozen to have ready for smoothies.

Using Dragon Fruit in the Kitchen

Dragon fruit is most often cut in half and eaten with a spoon; its skin is not eaten. It is also cubed and added to fruit salads, smoothies, and smoothie bowls.

How Is Dragon Fruit Eaten?

The fruit is cut lengthwise in half, the inside is separated from the skin with a spoon and eaten directly, or it is cubed and served.

How to Make Dragon Fruit Smoothie Bowl?

Frozen dragon fruit cubes are blended with banana and a little milk to obtain a smooth mixture; it is topped with granola, fresh fruit, and seeds for garnish.

Which Recipes Use Dragon Fruit?

Dragon fruit smoothie bowl, fruit salad, tropical fruit platters, and cocktail garnish are the most common uses.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is dragon fruit good for?

Dragon fruit is considered part of a balanced diet with its fiber content; it is a light fruit with high water content. It is a food; it does not claim to cure any disease.

Are dragon fruit seeds edible?

Yes, the small black seeds, similar to kiwi seeds, are edible and are usually swallowed without notice.

Is there a difference between red-fleshed and white-fleshed dragon fruit?

The red-fleshed variety is generally a bit sweeter, and its color can temporarily tint urine or stool red; this is a harmless condition. The white-fleshed variety is more common and mildly sweet.

Is dragon fruit skin edible?

No, the skin is tough and not suitable for eating; only the inner part is consumed.

How is dragon fruit ripened?

A firm dragon fruit can ripen at room temperature within a few days; it becomes ready to eat as its skin color deepens and it gives slightly.