Chikoo - Sapodilla

IntroductionSapodilla (Manilkara zapota) is an evergreen tree native in Central America, southern Mexico and the Caribbean. It can grow more than 30m in high and it is a wind-resistant tree. It produces fruits which are like large berries in diameter and their flesh is yellowish-brown in colour with streaks of orange when fully ripe. HistoryThe fruit is believed to be native in southern Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. It was later introduced in other parts of tropical America, Bahamas, Bermuda, and Florida. It was also introduced to the Philippines during Spanish colonization. RegionsNowadays sapodilla is introduced in many areas around the globe. It is produced in large quantities in India, Thailand, Indonesia, Pakistan, Malaysia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Mexico, and Bangladesh.Flavours & TextureThe fruit has a very sweet, malty flavour with a mild pear-like undertone. It has a soft, pulpy texture that is juicy and also slightly gritty, although not unpleasantly.  PreparationSkin, quarter and de-seed sapodillas before use. It is recommended to use sapodillas when they are very soft. You can eat it raw, or you can add it in a fruit salad, in your smoothies or make juice.Nutritional ValueSapodilla is a very good source of fibre and it also contains antioxidant compounds known as tannins. Calories per 100 g83 kcalFat1.1 gCarbohydrates20 gFiber5.3 gProtein0.4 gCalcium21 mgIron0.8 mgPotassium193 mg