Origin
Native to Southeast Asia (primarily tropical areas)
Related to our old friend Rambutan and lychee
Its name translates to "dragon eye" in Cantonese as the fruit, once shelled, looks like an eyeball (with its seed center as the pupil)
Taste & Texture & Touch
Flesh inside has the texture and look of peeled grape - white/off-white in color
Outer shell (bark-like), easily peels off
Slightly sweet
Ways to Enjoy
Similar to rambutan and lychee, longans can easily be enjoyed as a quick snack
Comparable to a pistachio, simply remove the outer shell to eat (eating around the seed, like a fresh cherry)
The flesh can easily be added to deserts and drinks
Notable Nutrients
Like Rambutans, Longans provide an excellent source of Vitamin C.
Why do we need Vitamin C?
Vitamin C is an antioxidant, helping protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Vitamin C is needed to make collagen which helps wounds heal.
Vitamin C increases absorption of iron from plant-based sources.
Learn more about all the ways our body uses Vitamin C!
Gut Microbiome Connection
Our gut microbiome loves the introduction of new foods, especially new fruits and veggies.
Eating different foods and/or preparing foods in different ways encourages the development and sustainability of new microorganisms as they are needed to help break down the foods we eat.
Bacteria are supported by the types of foods we eat. There are some bacteria that we know are not beneficial to our gut, and these bacteria are present with diets high in added sugars, low fiber, and high amounts of animal fats and protein. While other bacteria thrive with diets high in fruits, veggies, and whole grains. Eating a wide variety of fruits and veggies encourages the density and diversity of healthy bacteria.
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