Longan
Rich in vitamins
Deliciously sweet
Immune boost
The tropical fruit longan, also known as Lamyai, belongs to the soapberry family and is closely related to lychee and rambutan.
Originating from China, the longan is a small, round fruit that grows in clusters on evergreen trees that can reach impressive heights of 9 to 20 meters and a width of up to 14 meters.
The name “longan” is derived from the Chinese words meaning “dragon eyes”, which refers to the appearance of the seed.
When ripe, the longan has a thin skin that is less rough than that of lychees, making it easier to peel.
Longan is a popular fruit across Southeast Asia, and it is often used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments.
In fact, in traditional Chinese medicine, longan is believed to have a calming effect on the nervous system, promote relaxation, and enhance sleep quality.
Overall, there is much to appreciate about the longan fruit, from its interesting name and appearance to its health benefits and culinary versatility.
Origin
Longans are a type of tropical fruit that has its origins in southern China, where it has been grown for centuries.
The fruit grows best at an altitude of around 450 meters, which is the ideal elevation for longan cultivation.
Today, longans are also widely cultivated in other countries such as Vietnam, China, and Thailand.
There they have become an important crop for many farmers.
Longans are also grown in other parts of the world, including Australia, Florida, and Hawaii.
Taste
The longan is a small, round fruit with a sweet taste that is often compared to the taste of a mango.
Longan can be eaten fresh or dried. When eaten fresh, the fruit has a sweet, musky flavor that is similar to lychees, with a slightly firmer texture.
Dried longan, on the other hand, has a chewy texture and an even stronger, more concentrated flavor.
It is often used in desserts, teas, and other dishes to add a unique sweetness and aroma.
To enjoy longan, you first need to remove the thin skin that covers the flesh.
This can be done by using your nail or a small knife to create a small tear in the skin, after which it can be easily peeled away.
However, it is important to keep in mind that there is an inedible seed located in the pulp of the tropical fruit that should be removed before consuming.
Store
To keep your longan fresh, try storing them at room temperature in a cool, dry place, such as a fruit bowl.
You can expect them to remain at their best for up to a week under these conditions.
Alternatively, you could store them in the refrigerator, but be aware that this can affect their flavor and texture.
If you do choose to refrigerate them, make sure to keep them in a sealed container.
Benefits
Helps with healthy digestion
Beneficial for the skin
Can help regulate blood pressure
Boosts immune system
Helps fight skin aging
Read the explanation of the health benefits here
