Custard Apple - Cherimoya

Country of Origin - South America
Average Weight - 260 Grams

Introduction

Custard apple (Annona reticulate) is a green, cone-shaped fruit with scaly skin and creamy, sweet flesh. It is believed to be originated from the Americas but it can also be found in both tropical and subtropical regions. 

History

Custard apple is believed to have originated in the Andes Mountains of South America and it can grow in tropical regions with high altitudes. It is believed that Inca tribes used to culture it the Andes Mountains. It was introduced later in South Africa, India, Singapore, and Philippines.    

Regions

As it is native to South America, custard apple has been introduced in many countries of South America. Mexico is the top producing country in the world followed by Brazil. Significant amounts of custard apple are also produced in Australia, USA, India, China, Africa, and Thailand. 

Flavours & Texture

Custard apple has a sweet taste similar to other tropical fruits, and tastes like a creamy banana with a hint of mango. Its texture though varies depending on the cultivar and it can be from juicy and aromatic to hard with an astringent taste. Their skin and seeds are not edible.

Preparation

Cut it in half, scoop out the flesh and discard the seeds. You can eat it raw, in a fruit salad, smoothies, milkshakes, and ice creams. 

Nutritional Value

Custard apple is an excellent source of fiber and it also contains high amounts of vitamin C and iron.

Calories per 250 g	235 kcal
Fat	0.7 g
Carbohydrate	59 g
Fiber	11 g
Protein	5.2 g
Sodium	23 mg
Potassium	618 mg
Vitamin C	151 % of the RDI
Calcium	4.6 % of the RDI
Iron	8.3 % of the RDI