Loquat

What Is Loquat?

Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica) is a small, pear-shaped fruit with orange-yellow skin, native to the Far East. It grows in clusters, with a few large, shiny seeds inside each fruit.

It grows especially on Turkey's Mediterranean and Aegean coasts; as one of the earliest spring fruits, it appears in markets for a short season.

Nutritional Value of Loquat

Loquat is a low-to-moderate calorie fruit; 100 grams contains about 47 kcal of energy. It is notable for its vitamin A and potassium content.

What Are the Benefits of Loquat?

With its vitamin A and potassium content, loquat is one of the seasonal fruits considered part of a balanced diet.

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

How to Choose Loquat?

Fresh loquat has a bright orange-yellow color, gives slightly, and is free of rot.

• The color should be close to orange; greenish tones indicate it is not yet ripe.
• It should give slightly when pressed lightly, neither too firm nor too soft.
• There should be no rotten or bruised spots on the skin.

How to Store Loquat?

Loquat is a delicate fruit and stays fresh in the refrigerator for at most 3-5 days. Making jam or compote is a traditional method for longer-term storage.

Using Loquat in the Kitchen

Loquat is mostly eaten raw with its skin; it can also be halved and eaten with the seeds removed. Due to its short season, it is also turned into jam and syrup.

How to Make Loquat Jam?

Loquats with the seeds removed are boiled with sugar until they reach a thick consistency; lemon juice can be added optionally to extend shelf life.

Which Recipes Use Loquat?

Loquat jam, loquat compote, and fruit salads are the most common uses for loquat.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is loquat good for?

Loquat is rich in vitamin A and potassium; it is considered part of a balanced diet. It is a food; it does not claim to cure any disease.

Are loquat seeds edible?

No, the seeds are hard and inedible; they also contain amygdalin, so it is recommended not to consume them. Seeds should be removed while eating the fruit.

When does loquat ripen?

In Turkey it generally ripens between April and June; it has a short harvest season.

Is loquat eaten with its skin?

Yes, its thin skin is edible; however some people prefer to peel it before eating. The skin should be thoroughly washed.

Is loquat sour or sweet?

It varies depending on ripeness; fully ripe fruit is close to sweet, while unripe ones have a noticeably sour taste.