This fruit, similar to a tomato and a mango, got its name quite recently, some 47 years ago, or more precisely, on January 31, 1967. But this does not mean that earlier this fruit did not have a name - it did, and it sounded like "tomato tree". But, "tomato tree" is too similar in name to "breadfruit", therefore, confusion is possible. To prevent this, they decided to give the fruit a new name tamarillo.
Tamarillo fruits are quite large, can reach 10 centimeters in length and 5 centimeters in diameter. It is very important to choose the right tamarillo in order to fully experience its taste. Choose firm fruit with good, fresh stems. Remember another unspoken rule for choosing a good fruit: give preference to fruits grown in New Zealand. It is believed that this is where the most fragrant specimens grow.
How to eat tamarillo raw
Wash the fruit under cool water. Use a sharp knife to cut the tamarillo in half lengthwise. Sprinkle the sugar over the pulp, then scoop the fruit straight out of the rind with a spoon. Don't eat skins that taste bitter and unpleasant.
How to cook tamarillo
Rinse the fruit and place it in an ovenproof glass or ceramic bowl. Pour boiling water over it. Use enough water to cover the fruit completely.
Let the fruit sit in hot water for 3-4 minutes. Drain the hot water and replace with cold water to cool the tamarillo. Pick up a piece of the peel with a knife and remove it from the whole fruit.
Use in various dishes
It is also important to know how tamarillo is used in cooking. In fact, it is strange that it is a fruit. It has been proven that its closest relatives are peppers, potatoes and tomatoes. But this fact does not affect its taste in any way. Well, this fruit will harmonize with sugar. You can also puree it, or simply add salt and pepper to finely chopped slices. For smoothie lovers, the recipe for a drink made from tamarillo, whipped milk and yogurt is suitable.
You can always cut raw tamarillo into slices and then serve with sliced cheese or crackers, or add the fruit to your favorite salad. You can also make salsa by mixing tamarillo pulp with avocado and chopped chili.
Another good option is to mix the fruit pulp with the applesauce and drizzle over the ice cream. A mixture of tamarillo puree with honey can also serve as an excellent topping for desserts.
If you bought a tamarillo, but don't want to cook it today, put the fruit in the refrigerator, for at least a week it will retain its useful properties. Imagine how surprised your friends will be when you invite them to taste an unusual fruit, especially in the summer heat.
