The Nutritional and Health Benefits of Custard Apple 

Custard apple, also known as “cherimoya” or “sugar apple,” is a tropical fruit with a unique taste and texture. It is native to Central and South America but is now widely cultivated in various parts of the world, including Asia and Africa. In this article, we’ll explore the nutritional and health benefits of custard apple, as well as its culinary uses and how to choose, store, prepare and eat it.

What Does Custard Apple taste like:

Custard apple has a unique and delicious flavor that is often described as a combination of sweet and tangy. The taste is somewhat similar to a blend of pineapple, banana, and strawberry, with a creamy and custard-like texture. Some people also compare the flavor to that of a pear or a quince. The taste can vary slightly depending on the variety and ripeness of the fruit, but overall, it’s known for its pleasantly sweet and refreshing taste.

Nutritional Benefits of Custard Apple:

It is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin B6, potassium, magnesium, and iron. It is also high in antioxidants, which help to protect the body against cellular damage caused by free radicals. In addition, custard apple is a good source of dietary fiber, which promotes digestive health and helps to lower cholesterol levels.

Health Benefits of Custard Apple:

The nutrients in custard apple have been shown to provide a number of health benefits, such as:

Boosts Immunity:

Custard apple is high in vitamin C, which is essential for immune system function. It helps to stimulate the production of white blood cells, which are responsible for fighting off infections and diseases.

Lowers Blood Pressure:

It is a good source of potassium, which has been shown to help lower blood pressure. It helps to relax the blood vessels and reduce the strain on the heart, which can help to prevent heart disease and stroke.

Prevents Heart Diseases:

The antioxidants in custard apple help to protect the heart from damage caused by free radicals. They also help to reduce inflammation, which is a major risk factor for heart disease.

Helps in Digestion:

The fiber in custard apple helps to promote digestive health by adding bulk to the stool and preventing constipation. It also helps to feed the good bacteria in the gut, which can improve overall digestive function.

Aids in Weight Loss:

Custard apple is a low-calorie fruit that is high in fiber, which makes it a great addition to any weight loss diet. The fiber helps to keep you feeling full for longer, which can reduce your overall calorie intake.

Culinary Uses of Custard Apple:

Custard apple is a versatile fruit that offers various sweet dish options, including pies, tarts, and custards. Additionally, it can be blended into smoothies and milkshakes or used as a topping for ice cream and other desserts. You can get creative with custard apples by adding them to salads, salsas, and chutneys, or using them as a filling for crepes and pancakes.

Types of Custard Apple:

There are several different varieties of custard apple, each with its own unique taste and texture. Some of the most popular varieties include:

Cherimoya:

This is the most common type of custard apple, with a sweet, creamy, and slightly tart flavor. It has a green, scaly skin and white, fleshy pulp that contains large black seeds.

Sugar Apple:

Also known as “pinha” or “ata,” this type of custard apple has a sweet and fragrant flavor, with a grainy texture. It has a green, bumpy skin and white, creamy pulp that contains small black seeds.

Atemoya:

This is a hybrid of cherimoya and sugar apple, with a sweet and juicy flavor and smooth, creamy texture. It has a green, scaly skin and white, fleshy pulp that contains small black seeds.

How to Choose and Store Custard Apple:

Here are some ideas on how to choose and store:

How to Choose:

When selecting custard apples, it’s important to look for fruits that are firm but slightly yielding to the touch. Avoid fruits that are too soft or mushy, as they may be overripe and past their prime. Additionally, be sure to inspect the skin of the fruit for any signs of damage, such as cuts or bruises, which could indicate that the fruit is not fresh or may have been mishandled during transportation.

If you’re unsure about the ripeness of the fruit, you can try sniffing the stem end of the fruit. A ripe fruit will have a fragrant, sweet aroma that is indicative of its readiness to eat. You can also gently shake the fruit to see if the seeds rattle inside, which is another sign of ripeness.

How to Store:

After you choose your custard apples, it is crucial to store them correctly to maintain their freshness for as long as possible. Store custard apples at room temperature until they reach full ripeness, which can take between 2 to 5 days, depending on the type of custard apple and the temperature of your surroundings. Once the fruits reach full ripeness, you can extend their shelf life by up to 3 days by storing them in the refrigerator.

When storing custard apples, be sure to keep them away from other fruits and vegetables that emit ethylene gas, such as bananas or tomatoes. This gas can speed up the ripening process and cause your custard apples to spoil more quickly. If you need to ripen your custard apples more quickly, you can place them in a paper bag with a ripe banana or apple, which will help to accelerate the process.

Summary:

In conclusion, custard apples offer a wide range of health benefits and culinary uses, making them a delightful and nutritious fruit. From boosting immunity and aiding digestion to creating delicious sweet dishes and smoothies, custard apples provide versatility for enjoying them in many ways. By following the tips on choosing and storing custard apples, you can ensure that you always have fresh and flavorful fruit on hand. So, next time you want a sweet and creamy treat, try custard apples!