It's hard to believe that pitaya is a fruit. However, she, also known as dragon fruit or strawberry pear, has more than just a glamorous look. What are the properties of this exotic delicacy?
Pitaya is a mysterious alien from the tropics of South and Central America. The name "dragon fruit" owes its name to its fleshy skin, which is structured like dragon scales. Pitaya surprises in everything, including how it grows. It is a fruit … of a cactus that brings to mind a unique association with the fig prickly pear. Nowadays, we can easily find it in the countries of Southeast Asia, it is widely grown in Vietnam, Thailand and Malaysia. The pink tuber conceals a white, watery flesh with small black seeds. Its taste is reminiscent of the less sour kiwi combined with an unripe pear. The slightly sweeter (and, according to many, the tastiest) variety is called the yellow dragon because of its rich yellow skin tone.
How to check if the pitaya is ripe?
While holding the fruit in your hand, gently press down on it with your fingertips. If the skin is soft, but does not deform when pressed with fingers, the fruit is good for consumption.
The beneficial properties of pitaya
Due to its antioxidant content, pitaya is one of the first on the list of foods with health benefits. The pitahaya fruit is an excellent source of polyphenols, betalain and ascorbic acid, compounds that stop free radical damage such as premature aging and cardiovascular disease. It also supports the processes that regulate cholesterol levels and blood pressure.
What distinguishes the fruit from others is its low calorie content (about 60 kcal per 100 g). Compared to the amount of nutrients it provides, this would be an ideal snack for those looking to stay in shape (less sugar than other tropical fruits). You can substitute dried fruits for fresh fruits. This is a great and healthy snack between meals.
Even the ancient Maya knew about the beneficial properties of pitaya. They used this fruit as a diuretic and to lower blood sugar levels.
Dragon fruit in the kitchen
It may seem that the thick pitaya crust is difficult to break through, but this is only an appearance - it easily sags under the edge of the knife. The easiest way to get into its flesh is to cut the fruit in half. The middle is easy to pick with a spoon, just like kiwi. Slightly chilled, it will refresh you on hot summer days.
It is best to chill the drink before serving. Low temperatures affect the taste of the fruit.
Unobtrusive pitahaya will also enrich the taste of desserts and salads. It goes well with creamy ice cream, fruit yogurt.
Surprise your friends with an unusual dessert. To do this, use the pink pitaya skin. Cut it in half lengthwise and select the pulp. Dice pineapple, kiwi and mango. Drizzle with lime juice. Spoon the lettuce into the hollow dragon fruit tubers and garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Ingredients:
- 200 ml thick Greek yogurt;
- ½ ripe mango;
- ½ diced pitaya;
- 2 tablespoons crispy muesli
- 1 tablespoon of almond flakes
- 1 teaspoon chia seeds
- a pinch of ground cinnamon.
Mix yogurt with mango and cinnamon. Serve in a bowl or in a tall glass, alternating with muesli. Sprinkle with chia seeds, shredded drink and almond flakes.
