The Pitaya or Dragonfruit

Pitaya in South America and Dragon fruit in Asia, the origin of the fruit was never really settled. This is a tropical fruit cultivated as ornamental plant and fruit crop in countries like Vietnam,Thailand, Malaysia and Taiwan. It is grown in a lot of homes in Hawaii and I know of  a Vietnamese farmer in Sacramento, California who does organic farming and cultivates these beauties.  The fruit has a delicate slightly sweet flavor and known to have heath benefits like vitamins and minerals. There are red, yellow and bright magenta in color. They are prepared in a variety of ways but I'd rather eat them fresh because of its very delicate flavor that gets lost in cooking or when mixed with other ingredients. I have fun serving them in different forms.

This is how big they are compered with the apple. If you see them in the market select the brighter in color and shinier ones. I find the bigger fruit more mature and sweeter too. I got these at a huge market in Berkeley that sells all kinds of fruit and vegetables that are in season around the world. I only wish they had  pitayas with red and yellow pulp for they are really nice looking to show you.

I often wondered why they call it dragonfruit when it looks more like a fish to me. What do you think?

The tiny seeds are often compared to the texture of the kiwi which are completely edible or even the strawberry. Here are some ways you might serve them.

This slice can take the place of my salad anytime. Try this fruit, even if it's just for its good looks. Enjoy!