If you are a fan of exotic-looking fruits, then this one must positively meet your taste! Dragon fruit is usually found in the Southeast Asian region. It closely resembles the exterior of a dragon; it has a sour outer skin while the inside is sweet like sugar.
Alright, so how does one go about consuming this fruit? It may sound like a fairly big challenge to undertake but it really isn’t as it is very easy to cut.
Understanding Dragon Fruit
Let’s learn a bit about dragon fruit before we start cutting it. People often call it pitaya. You can find dragon fruit from summer to early fall. There are three main types:
1. White-fleshed (Hylocereus undatus) with pink skin
2. Red-fleshed (Hylocereus costaricensis) with red skin
3. Yellow-skinned (Hylocereus megalanthus) with white flesh
So, how big is a dragon fruit? Well, a dragon fruit is usually measured in a range of 3 to 4 inches. Concerning its weight, average weight varies between 0.5 and 1.5 lbs. This fruit is best to be consumed mostly during the summer season, specifically from June up to September. But, the best time to savor it is in the summer.
Steps on How to Cut a Dragon Fruit
Selecting the Perfect Dragon Fruit
The skin of the dragon fruit should be bright and the entire surface should be in the same color. The skin should be smooth, which should yield a little when one presses on it like an avocado.
Washing the Fruit
Wash the dragon fruit in cool water from the tap to get rid of dirt and chemicals. Use a clean cloth to dry it off.
Cutting the Ends
First, prepare the dragon fruit by laying it on a cutting board. With proper knife skills go ahead and chop off both ends of the fruit. This step also gives you a steady base to start working with.
Slicing the Fruit
Stand the fruit on one of the flat ends and slice it down the middle from top to bottom. This will reveal the stunning flesh inside.
Scooping Out the Flesh
Next, scoop out the flesh of each half using a spoon. The flesh should easily separate from the skin. If the fruit is ripe, this step will be effortless.
Cutting into Desired Shapes
Place the scooped flesh on the chopping board and start chopping it into large cubes or large slices or in any other shape which you may consider suitable. This fruit is mainly eaten fresh in meals, in fruit salads, or processed into juices.
How Does Dragon Fruit Benefit Your Diet
If you choose to take dragon fruit, one hundred grams of dragon fruit contains approximately sixty calories making it a low calorie food. It’s also rich in:
- Fiber: You get about a portion of around 3g each time and the benefits of taking it includes improving digestion as well as making one feel full.
- Vitamin C: This is beneficial for your skin and also for your immunity since it builds it up.
- Magnesium: This is why muscles and nerves work.
- Iron: Required for the synthesis of red blood cells.
- Antioxidants: Beneficial in protecting cells from being degraded before their required time.
FAQs
How do you cut a yellow dragon fruit?
- Wash the fruit thoroughly.
- Trim off both ends.
- Slice it in half across its length.
- Take a spoon and scoop out the flesh.
How do you cut a red dragon fruit?
- Rinse the fruit to clean it.
- Remove both ends with a knife.
- Cut the fruit lengthwise.
- Cut it open and scoop out the juicy, ruby red flesh using a spoon.
What are the ways to eat dragon fruit?
- Scoop the flesh out and eat it raw.
- Serve it with fresh fruits like in fruit salads or mix it with your fruit juices and smoothies.
- You can use it as garnish on your yogurt or sprinkle it on your cereal, if ever you want to indulge!
- Serve it with your desserts.
Is dragon fruit healthy for you?
Yes, dragon fruit is really dense in nutrition. It holds very few calories but is loaded with dietary fiber. It is also rich in vitamins C and B, magnesium, iron, and antioxidants.
How do you peel a dragon fruit?
- Cut off both ends.
- Slice the fruit in half lengthwise.
- Be careful when peeling back the skin from each half of the dragon fruit to get to the flesh.
How do you improve the flavor of dragon fruit?
- Keep it in the refrigerator before consuming it.
- pour a bit of lime or lemon juice over it.
- add other fruits to give it a richer taste.
- Include a pinch of chili powder for a pinch of spiciness if preferred.
Can dragon fruit be eaten raw?
Dragon fruit can be eaten raw and it is enjoyed that way by many people. It’s as simple as scooping out the flesh part and you are ready to go. It can be eaten as it is or with many other foods.
How will you recognize a ripe dragon fruit?
A perfectly ripe dragon fruit is going to have skin that’s bright and colored evenly, and gives slightly to pressure, much like an avocado. Stay away from dragon fruits with shriveled skin or excessive brown spots.
What is the simplest method to cut a dragon fruit?
- Wash it.
- Cut off the ends.
- Halve it lengthwise.
- Take out the flesh using a spoon.
What flavor does dragon fruit have?
So, when it comes to the taste of this fruit, it is a mix between a kiwi and a pear. This makes it slightly tart yet also sweet.
How many calories are in a dragon fruit?
Is dragon fruit considered to be healthy? A 100-gram serving of dragon fruit typically has around 60 calories. So, this makes it a low-calorie option for those watching what they eat.
Can you eat the skin of a dragon fruit?
No, you cannot consume the skin of the dragon fruit. It is tough and bitter. Always scoop out the flesh and discard the skin.
Is dragon fruit available year-round?
Dragon fruit is typically available from June to September. However, availability may vary depending on the region and local growing conditions.
Can you store cut dragon fruit?
Yes, cut dragon fruit can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days only. It is typically used in its fresh form for the best taste and texture.
Conclusion
So, here you have it! With these tips, you can safely cut and enjoy your dragon fruit. Whether adding it to meals or savoring it as a snack, you’ll now know how to easily prepare this colorful and nutritious fruit. Happy cutting!
Very useful information.