13 Exotic Tropical Fruits You've Never Heard Of: Why Rambutan Will Amaze Your Taste Buds

9. Jabuticaba: The Tree Grape of Brazil

Often known as the Brazilian grape tree, jabuticaba is an unusual fruit that makes a dramatic visual show growing straight on the trunk and branches of its tree. Originally from southeast Brazil, this little dark purple fruit has a quite unusual flavour sensation even if it resembles a big grape. Jabuticaba's thick skin encases a translucent white pulp with a gelatinous feel. Though with a more complicated, tropical undertone, the taste is sweet and somewhat acidic, evocative of grapes. Jabuticaba is only really unique because of its adaptability; it may be eaten fresh, prepared into jams, jellies, and even fermented into wine or liqueur.

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Rich in antioxidants, especially anthocyanins, which give the fruit its deep purple hue and have been linked to many health advantages, Jabuticaba season is celebrated in Brazil; the fruit is rather common in regional cuisine and cultural activities. Popular decorative plant and intriguing sight the tree is because of its unusual fruiting mechanism whereby the fruits seem to grow straight from the bark. The slow-growing jabuticaba trees can take up to 15 years to produce fruit, which increases the value and attraction of the fruit. Although fresh jabuticabas have a limited shelf life, several preservation techniques have been devised to let consumers enjoy this unusual fruit all year long. From gourmet preserves to jabuticaba-flavored ice creams, this Brazilian treasure is finding its way into many culinary uses and enthrals foodies with its unique flavour and interesting background.