Origin
Native to Southeast Asia
Related to tropical fruits like lychee and longan
Name derived from "rambut" in the Malay language, meaning hair (for the soft spines extending out of the fruit shell)
In Vietnam, they are called chôm chôm (meaning messy hair)
Taste & Texture
Flesh inside has the texture and look of peeled grape - white or pink pale in color
The almond-sized seed can be cooked and eaten.
Slightly sweet and mildly acidic
Notable Nutrients
Rambutans 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.
So interesting and delicious! Thank you for introducing me to these!
I never would have guessed the inside of one of those looked like that. Thanks for sharing!