Hey Lykkers, ever heard of a fruit that looks and tastes like a cooked egg yolk? Sounds strange, right? But let’s dive into the world of the egg yolk fruit, also known as Canistel, and find out why this unique tropical treat has captured the hearts of fruit lovers around the world.
Whether you're a curious eater or a nature explorer, this guide is for you.
<h3>What Exactly Is Egg Yolk Fruit?</h3>
The egg yolk fruit, with its scientific name Pouteria campechiana, is a tropical tree fruit that originally comes from northern South America. Over time, it spread to other tropical areas, including the Philippines and Taiwan. In fact, it was introduced to Taiwan back in 1929 and is known locally by another charming name—“fairy peach”—thanks to its golden shape.
This fruit grows on trees that can reach heights between 5 to 8 meters. The leaves are long, shaped like narrow ovals or spoons, and the branches contain a sticky white sap. Every year around May to June, the tree produces pale yellow-green flowers. The fruit that follows can be heart-shaped or oval and turns a bright orange-yellow when it’s ripe.
<h3>What Does It Taste Like?</h3>
Here’s the fun part—when the egg yolk fruit is fully ripe, the flesh becomes soft, dry, and crumbly, very much like the texture of a cooked egg yolk. It has a naturally sweet flavor and a subtle aroma that reminds us of sugar mixed with egg custard. The bright orange flesh is smooth and creamy when eaten fresh, and it often surprises first-timers with its rich, dessert-like feel.
The seeds inside are brown, slightly flat, and oval-shaped, with 1 to 4 seeds in each fruit.
<h3>How Can We Enjoy It?</h3>
Most people enjoy egg yolk fruit raw, scooping it out with a spoon. Since it’s soft and slightly dry, it’s great to pair it with milk to make smoothies or fruit shakes. Just blend the pulp with some chilled milk and a bit of honey for a refreshing tropical drink!
Another fun way to use it is by mixing it into baked goods or turning it into jam. Think of it as a natural custard filling. Because it’s not juicy like many other tropical fruits, it holds its shape well and blends beautifully into creamy desserts.
<h3>Why Is It Good for Us?</h3>
This golden fruit isn’t just about looks and taste—it’s packed with nutrients too! In every 100 grams, you’ll get:
- About 139 kcal of energy
- Over 36 grams of natural sugars (great for quick energy)
- A healthy dose of Vitamin C—70% of your daily value!
- nVitamin B3 (niacin), which supports our metabolism
- Small amounts of iron, calcium, and phosphorus
Plus, it contains a bit of fiber and feels light on the stomach, making it a great choice when we need energy without feeling weighed down.
<h3>When and Where Can We Find It?</h3>
If you’re in Taiwan or other tropical parts of Asia, you might find egg yolk fruits at local markets, especially during late summer. In some specialty fruit shops, they’re sold individually or in small bundles. When picking one, go for fruits with a golden skin and a soft feel—they’re ready to eat!
<h3>Final Tips for Lykkers!</h3>
- Storage tip: Keep the fruits at room temperature until soft. Once ripe, refrigerate them and eat within two days.
- Try blending it: Mix it with milk or yogurt for a tropical smoothie.
- Avoid the peel: It’s edible but bitter—better to stick to the pulp.
<h3>Let’s Explore New Flavors Together!</h3>
So, Lykkers, are you feeling adventurous yet? The egg yolk fruit is one of those rare finds that bring fun, flavor, and health all in one bite. It’s not just a fruit—it’s a tropical surprise waiting to be enjoyed. If you ever spot one at a market or during your travels, don’t hesitate. Give it a try and let us know what you think.
Have you tasted it before? Or are you planning to try it soon? Drop us a comment and share your fruity adventures with us—we’re all ears and hungry for more!
Want to explore more curious fruits together? Let us know!
EGGFRUIT -- Canistel -- Does it Tastes Like Egg? | Fruity Fruits
Video by emmymade