ADVERTISEMENT
Introduction
The prickly apple, also known as the Cucumis metuliferus or horned melon, is a unique fruit that originates from the regions of Southern Africa. It has a distinctive appearance, covered in spiky green skin, and an intriguing, vibrant green, jelly-like flesh inside. While the prickly apple might seem intimidating due to its appearance, it offers a refreshing, mildly sweet taste and a variety of culinary possibilities. In this article, we’ll dive into the unique properties of the prickly apple, share some easy recipes, and explore ways to make the most of this exotic fruit in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
1 ripe prickly apple (horned melon)
1 tablespoon of honey (optional)
Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)
1 tablespoon lime juice (optional)
½ cup of yogurt (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
Prepare the Prickly Apple: Begin by carefully slicing the prickly apple lengthwise. Be cautious while handling the fruit because of its sharp, spiky outer skin.
Scoop Out the Flesh: Using a spoon, scoop out the bright green, jelly-like flesh. The seeds will be attached to the flesh and have a slightly crunchy texture.
Serve as is or with Add-ins: For a quick and refreshing snack, place the flesh into a serving bowl. You can drizzle honey or lime juice over it for added flavor, or top it with a dollop of yogurt.
Garnish: Sprinkle fresh mint leaves over the fruit for a touch of color and fragrance.
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serving: The prickly apple can be served as a refreshing snack on its own or added to fruit salads. It's also a perfect complement to a tropical smoothie or a healthy breakfast bowl.
Storage: If you're not consuming the entire fruit immediately, store any leftover flesh in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 2 days. Be sure to store the whole fruit at room temperature until it's ready to be cut open.
Variations:
Prickly Apple Salsa: For a twist on a traditional fruit salsa, combine diced prickly apple with chopped tomatoes, cilantro, red onions, jalapeños, and lime juice. Serve this vibrant salsa with grilled chicken or fish.
Smoothie Boost: Add prickly apple to your morning smoothie blend for an extra boost of hydration and antioxidants. Pair it with banana, pineapple, and coconut water for a tropical twist.
Prickly Apple Sorbet: Puree prickly apple flesh with a sweetener of choice (like agave or maple syrup) and freeze the mixture. You’ll get a refreshing and exotic sorbet to enjoy on warm days.
FAQ:
Q: What does the prickly apple taste like? A: The prickly apple has a mild, refreshing flavor that’s often described as a mix between cucumber, kiwi, and melon. It’s subtly sweet with a hint of tanginess, making it a unique fruit to enjoy in various dishes.
Q: Is the skin of the prickly apple edible? A: No, the skin of the prickly apple is tough and spiky, making it inedible. Only the flesh inside is consumed.
Q: How can I tell if a prickly apple is ripe? A: A ripe prickly apple will have a vibrant orange or yellow color with noticeable spikes. If the fruit feels firm to the touch, it's likely ripe. If it’s too soft, it may be overripe.
Q: Can I use prickly apple in desserts? A: Yes! Prickly apple works wonderfully in fruit salads, sorbets, and even as a topping for cakes and tarts. Its sweet, tangy taste pairs well with creamy or citrusy desserts.
ADVERTISEMENT
