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When it comes to exploring a new culture, trying exotic fruits is an enlightening experience. And Chinese fruits are no exception. From the sweet lychees fruit to the original-looking Buddha’s hand, there’s a fruit for everyone when traveling through China.
In this article, we will look at the most popular fruits in China, what makes them unique, and what dishes you might be able to incorporate them into.
Fruit in Chinese is Shuǐguǒ 水果
Chinese Fruit to Taste on Your Travels
Dragon Fruit
Dragon fruit, which is also known as pitaya, is a popular fruit in Chinese cuisine. It is mostly grown in the southern provinces of China, including Guangdong, Guangxi, and Yunnan.
The fruit has a unique appearance with vibrant pink or yellow skin and white or red flesh with tiny black seeds. Its taste is described as a cross between a kiwi and a pear, with a subtle sweetness and a crunchy texture.
Dragon fruits are versatile Chinese fruits as, aside from their delicious taste, they are also used for medicinal purposes, especially in traditional Chinese medicine. It is believed to be helpful in treating diabetes and high blood pressure.
Lychees (Litchi)
Lychees are one of the beloved Chinese fruits, with a unique and delicious taste that’s treasured for its sweet and slightly tart notes.
They’re typically grown in the southern provinces of China, such as Guangdong and Fujian, and are in season during the summer months.
Lychees have become increasingly popular around the world in recent years and are now regularly used in all kinds of drinks, from smoothies and cocktails to juices and teas.
Perhaps the most famous use of lychees in a beverage is the lychee martini, which blends the fruit’s subtle but distinctive flavor with vodka for a refreshing and unforgettable cocktail experience.
Chinese Pear (Asian Pears)
The Chinese Pear, also known as the Asian Pear, is treasured for its unique flavor and texture. Its sweet and juicy flesh is a cross between a pear and an apple, incorporating the best of both fruits.
Primarily grown in Shandong and Hebei provinces, these areas are known for their ideal growing conditions for the Chinese Pear. Harvesting season occurs in late summer to early autumn when the fruit reaches peak ripeness.
Sweet and crisp, this fruit can be eaten as a snack on its own or used in recipes such as pear salad, glazed with honey, or baked in a tart.
The Chinese Pear is an irresistible treat and a highlight of Chinese cuisine.
Hami Melon
The golden Hami melon is a popular Chinese fruit that has been grown in the Xinjiang province for centuries.
This melon, which closely resembles a cantaloupe, is known for its sweet taste and juicy texture.
It is typically harvested between August and October and can be enjoyed fresh or added to various dishes such as salads and fruit platters.
Due to its unique flavor, the Golden Hami melon is a favorite among Chinese people. It can also be used in traditional Chinese medicine as an ingredient for various herbal remedies.
The Golden Hami melon has recently become popular in the West as well, thanks to its health benefits and unique taste.
Meyer Lemon
The Meyer lemon is a popular citrus fruit in China, known for its unique flavor and versatility in countless recipes.
Grown predominantly in the southern regions of China, the Meyer lemon has a distinct taste that sets it apart from other citrus fruits.
Its flavor is a delightful combination of sweet and sour with a subtle floral note, making it a favorite ingredient in sweet and savory dishes.
Chinese cuisine often incorporates Meyer lemon into dishes such as stir-fries, salads, and refreshing drinks.
If you’re feeling adventurous in the kitchen, try using Meyer lemon in a homemade vinaigrette or mixing the juice with honey for a soothing tea.
Star Fruit
Star fruit is one of the exotic Asian fruits known for its unique taste and nutritional value. The fruit gets its name from its star-shaped appearance.
Though it can be found in other parts of the world, the fruit is predominantly grown in southern China.
The optimal time to find it in season is mid to late summer. The fruit can be enjoyed when ripe for its tart and slightly sweet flavor.
Whether eaten raw or used as an ingredient in a dish, the possibilities with star fruit are endless. This fruit is versatile and delicious, from jams and jellies to salads and stir-fries.
It is no wonder that it is considered one of the most popular Chinese fruits enjoyed throughout the country.
Passion Fruit
Passion fruit is a Chinese fruit that offers a unique taste and refreshing flavor to any dish. This fruit has a tangy and sweet flavor that is irresistibly delicious.
It is usually grown in Hainan, Yunnan, and Guangdong provinces, where the tropical climate is perfect for its growth. These places produce some of the best passion fruits in the world, and you will find them sold in markets during the summer months.
One delicious way to enjoy this fruit is to make a passion fruit sorbet, which involves making a simple syrup, blending passion fruit pulp, and then freezing the mixture.
This dessert is refreshing, tasty, and the perfect way to beat the summer heat.
Goji Berries
Goji berries, also known as wolfberries, are a popular Chinese fruit that has been used for centuries for its health benefits.
The taste of these small, bright red berries can be described as tart and slightly sweet, with a chewy texture.
They are predominantly grown in the Ningxia region of China, where the soil and climate are perfect for their growth.
Goji berries are typically harvested in late summer and early autumn, which is when they are at their peak flavor.
This delicious fruit can be eaten on its own or added to recipes such as smoothies, fruit salads, and oatmeal bowls for an extra burst of nutrients.
Chinese Bayberry
Chinese bayberry, known as Yangmei in Chinese, is a popular fruit in China that boasts a sweet and tangy flavor.
This delicious fruit is primarily grown in southeastern China, including Fujian, Guangdong, and Zhejiang provinces.
They are in season during the hot summer months, typically from May to July.
Not only are Chinese bayberries delicious, but they’re also packed with nutrients such as Vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants.
In China, they’re commonly eaten fresh or used in various recipes, such as making jam and adding them to salads or for making delicious and refreshing drinks.
Sugar Apple
The sugar apple, also known as the custard apple, is a Chinese fruit that is both delicious and nutritious.
With a sweet and creamy taste reminiscent of pineapple and vanilla, it’s no wonder why sugar apple is a popular choice for those looking for a healthy snack or dessert.
Though it can be grown in various regions of China, it is predominately found in the southern provinces, such as Guangdong and Hainan, where the climate is warm and humid.
Harvest season typically falls between August and October, making it a perfect autumn treat.
There are plenty of ways to enjoy sugar apples, such as incorporating them into smoothies or baking them into pies and pastries.
Longan
Longan fruit, also known as dragon’s eye fruit, boasts a unique, juicy texture and sweet flavor.
This tropical fruit is primarily grown in southern China’s Guangdong, Fujian, and Yunnan provinces.
Longans, not to be confused with lychees or rambutan, are usually harvested between July and August in mid to late summer.
They are enjoyed fresh as a snack or added to many traditional Chinese desserts, such as sweet soups and mooncakes.
For those looking to experiment with different recipes, longan can lend itself to delicious sorbets, cocktails, and fruit salads.
Its one-of-a-kind taste and versatility make it a must-try for anyone interested in exploring Chinese fruits.
Kiwi Fruit (National Fruit of China)
The kiwi fruit, famous for its unique flavor, is known as the national fruit of China. It has a sweet and tart taste that makes it a popular fruit among dessert lovers.
The kiwi is predominantly grown in the Shaanxi province in northwestern China.
They are usually harvested in late October or early November, making them a perfect winter fruit.
Apart from being a delicious treat, the kiwi has many health benefits, including high fiber content and a substantial amount of vitamin C.
In China, the fruit is often used in cooking and can be found in various recipes, from fruit salads to smoothies.
Overall, the kiwi fruit perfectly represents the diversity of Chinese fruits and their importance in the country’s culture.
Green Plum
The green plum, or oume, is one of the most popular fruits in China. It is often used in various dishes with a tangy and slightly sour taste to add a unique flavor.
The oume is predominately grown in southern China, where the warm climate allows for optimal growth.
Chinese people have been eating oume for centuries, and it has become an integral part of their cuisine. It can be eaten fresh, dried, or pickled and is often used in desserts, sauces, and marinades.
If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, try adding some oume to your salad or smoothie for a delicious twist.
In China, oume is a tasty fruit and has a reputation for bringing good luck.
Rose Apple
The rose apple, also known as jambu fruit or wax apple, is a unique Chinese fruit with a refreshing taste.
It is grown in southern China’s Guangdong and Fujian provinces, where the climate is perfect for its growth.
Rose apples are typically in season around August-September.
This delicious fruit has a honey-like flavor and is often enjoyed fresh.
It can also be incorporated into various recipes, such as desserts or salads.
The rose apple’s sweet taste makes it an excellent snack for those looking to satisfy their sweet tooth without compromising their health.
Monk Fruit
The monk fruit, also known as luo han guo in Chinese, is a unique and tasty Chinese fruit. It has a sweet flavor that is often compared to honey or nectar.
This tropical fruit is mainly grown in southwestern China, including Sichuan and Guangxi provinces.
Monk fruit is usually harvested between June and August.
It is often used in traditional Chinese recipes, such as sweet soups or teas.
Monk fruit is an excellent option for those looking for a healthy snack or refreshing dessert. It can also be used to make delicious smoothies or add to salads for extra sweetness.
Buddha’s Hand
Buddha’s hand is a unique citrus fruit that is native to China. It has an intense and sweet flavor with hints of lemon and orange.
The Buddha’s hand can be found in the mountainous regions of southern China, particularly in Zhejiang, Sichuan, and Yunnan provinces.
These citrus fruits are harvested between August and September and are a popular choice among Chinese chefs and culinary enthusiasts.
The fruit can be enjoyed fresh or added to various dishes for an extra zing of flavor. It can also be used to make traditional Chinese desserts, such as sweet soups.
Rambutan (红 毛 丹)
The rambutan is an exotic Asian fruit that can be found in China. It has a unique and sweet taste with hints of citrus.
Rambutans are mainly grown in the warmer regions of southern China, particularly in Fujian and Guangdong provinces.
The rambutan is a favorite among Chinese people for its sweet taste and unique texture.
It can be enjoyed fresh or added to various recipes such as smoothies, fruit salads, and desserts.
Jujube Fruit
The jujube fruit is one of the drupe fruits that has become increasingly popular in China due to its unique taste and versatility.
With a texture similar to that of an apple, the jujube’s flavor is sweet with a slightly tangy aftertaste.
It is predominately grown in the northern provinces of China, where the climate is suitable for its cultivation.
The Chinese have found many uses for this fruit, including drying it, making teas and wine, and even using it in traditional medicine.
One popular recipe idea for the jujube fruit is to stuff it with walnuts or red bean paste, giving it a delicious sweet and savory combination.
Pomelo
With a taste that sits somewhere between a grapefruit and a sweet orange, the pomelo offers a unique flavor profile that has captivated Chinese taste buds for centuries.
Originating in Southeast Asia, the pomelo is mainly grown in the southern Chinese province of Guangdong, where the warm climate and fertile soil make it the perfect environment for this citrus fruit to thrive.
Known for its thick skin and delightfully juicy flesh, pomelos can be enjoyed on their own. They are also often used in salads or as a refreshing juice.
Do you know the difference between pomelo and grapefruit?
Yuzu Fruit
The yuzu fruit, with its bumpy exterior and bright yellow or orange color, is known for its unique flavor and versatility in Chinese cuisine.
Grown predominately in the Zhejiang and Sichuan provinces, the yuzu’s tangy taste combines lemon, mandarin, and grapefruit flavors, making it a perfect ingredient for sweet and savory dishes.
In Chinese cuisine, the yuzu fruit is used to add a citrusy note to dishes like stir-fries, marinades, and hot pot broths.
Its aromatic scent also makes it a popular ingredient in perfumes and traditional Chinese medicine.
Due to its growing popularity, the yuzu fruit has even made its way into the local cocktail scene, adding a zesty twist to traditional drinks.
Kumquat
With its sweet and tart flavor, the kumquat is a unique Chinese fruit with a taste of sweetness mixed with tangy sourness.
This citrus fruit is mainly grown in southern China’s Guangdong, Fujian, and Hainan provinces.
Kumquats are usually enjoyed fresh or cooked in various recipes such as jams, jellies, and syrups.
As kumquats are very nutritious, they are often used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat digestive problems and other ailments.
Kumquats have also become popular among cocktail enthusiasts due to their complex flavor profile, adding a unique twist to classic drinks.
Durian
The durian, a spiky fruit with a pungent odor, has a unique taste that can be described as a blend of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors.
It is a popular fruit in China, particularly in the southern parts, where it is primarily grown.
Despite its distinct flavor, durian is a love or hate fruit, with some loving its strong taste and others finding it repulsive due to its overpowering aroma.
Its popularity can be attributed to its purported health benefits, including being rich in nutrients like vitamins and minerals.
Although it may not be everyone’s cup of tea, durian, sometimes mistaken for jackfruit, is undoubtedly a fascinating fruit that has earned its place as a beloved delicacy in China.
Persimmon
The persimmon is a sweet and vibrant fruit that is widely enjoyed in China.
It has been cultivated for centuries, with some Chinese scholars believing that it was introduced to the country as early as the fourth century BC.
Grown mainly in southeastern China, mainly in Shandong and Fujian provinces, its bright orange color makes it a popular choice for decorating gardens and homes.
Persimmons are usually enjoyed fresh; however, they can also be used in many recipes, such as jams, cakes, and cheese platters.
Persimmons are also believed to have numerous health benefits due to their high vitamin content.
Summary for Chinese Fruits
From exotic durian to the refreshingly sweet lychee, there is something special about Chinese fruits that will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. Not only are these fruits delightful to consume, but their versatility makes them excellent for use in salads and dessert dishes.
The next time you are fortunate enough to travel to China, make sure you take advantage of the opportunity by indulging in a few of these delicious Chinese fruits.
As a parting thought, consider this: instead of bringing back souvenirs on your travels, why not bring back amazing memories and a box of freshly picked Chinese fruit?
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FAQ
Q: What are the health benefits of Chinese fruits?
A: Many of the Chinese fruits mentioned in this article have numerous health benefits, including being a good source of vitamins and minerals as well as containing powerful antioxidants. Eating these fruits can help boost your energy levels and may even reduce your risk of developing certain diseases. Additionally, consuming these fruits will provide your body with essential nutrients that are necessary for proper functioning.
Q: Where are Chinese fruits grown?
A: Chinese fruits are mainly grown in the southern provinces of China due to their warmer climate and fertile soil. These provinces include Guangdong, Zhejiang, Fujian, Sichuan and Hainan. Additionally, some fruits are grown in the northern provinces of China due to their cooler climate and higher elevations.