The variety and availability of fruits in this region of the world is stunning. Additionally to the Five must-eat fruits in Singapore post, here are some I didn't mention before which I also greatly enjoy.
1. Starfruit (Averrhoa carambola)
Juicy, crunchy, refreshing and nutritious. Star-shaped fruit is especially rich in vitamin C and many people don't like its taste since it lacks sweetness. However, this makes it healthy low-calorie snack.
2. Sugarapple (Annona squamosa)
Sweet and creamy source of manganese (important for bones, connective tissue, sex hormone synthesis) and vitamin C. It tastes like soursop, or a mix of pineapple, strawberries and apples in a creamy banana-like texture. There are couple of black seeds inside that are poisonous, avoid eating them. :)
3. Rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum)
This cool looking fruit is native to Malaysia region and the taste is pretty similar to lychee. The name comes from Malay word rambut meaning hair. When you peel its hairy skin, there is gentle and juicy white flesh rich in manganese.
4. Papaya (Carica papaya)
Although native to Mexico and South America, nowadays it is commonly grown over many tropical and subtropical regions of the world. It is very rich in vitamin C and when ripe, it tastes nicely sweet and simple. Unripe, green papaya is often used in preparation of sour dishes or as an ingredient in salads.
5. Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus)
The largest fruit of all trees! It can reach as much as 55kg in weight and 50cm in length. The ripe fruits is very sweet, strong and because of its meaty structure, it often serves as a meat-substitute in vegan and vegetarian diet. It is also a great plant-based source of vitamin B6 which is usually found in red meat and fish.
