Nance fruit is a tropical fruit found mainly in Central and Latin America, as well as across the Caribbean. It grows on the Byrsonima crassifolia tree and is sometimes referred to as the nanche, nanceberry, or crabapple fruit, depending on the region. The fruit itself resembles a yellow or orange cherry, and boasts a unique and sweet flavor.
Introduction to Nance Fruit
If you’re looking for an exotic fruit with a unique flavor and aroma, Nance is the perfect choice! This round-shaped delight may look like a cherry but offers something different entirely. It’s also known as nanche or hogberry if you’re on the hunt in your local market.
Nance fruit has a rich history and has been consumed by indigenous communities for centuries. The strikingly vibrant Malpighiaceae family is no stranger to the captivating yellow hue of a golden spoon. This beloved species impresses with its beaming color and unmistakable spade-like shape! The fruit grows on small shrubs or trees and has a tangy and slightly sweet taste.
Nance fruit offers a sweet, tart flavour that is enjoyed throughout Central and South America. Its petite size – about the same as a cherry – belies an incredibly tough skin which gives way to juicy yellow flesh containing one or two small seeds. Even more remarkable is that its outer rind can be eaten too, providing added fiber for those lucky enough to grow it in their tropical home!
Nutritional Components
A 1/2-cup (56-gram) serving of nance fruit contains the following nutrients:
- Calories: 41
- Carbs: 9.5 grams
- Protein: 0.4 gram
- Fat: 0.7 gram
- Fiber: 4 grams
- Vitamin C: 59% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin K: 7% of the DV
- Vitamin E: 5% of the DV
- Calcium: 2% of the DV
- Magnesium: 3% of the DV
Health Benefits
Regular consumption of nance fruit can contribute to a variety of health benefits:
- Gut Health: The dietary fiber found in nance fruit helps nourish friendly gut bacteria, promoting overall gut health.
- Skin Health: Nance fruit is rich in vitamin C, which plays a crucial role in collagen synthesis and maintaining skin health.
- Stroke Risk Reduction: Eating white-fleshed fruits like nance may be associated with a decreased risk of stroke.
Precautions
While nance fruit is generally considered safe for consumption, some individuals may develop allergies or intolerances. If you experience any adverse reactions after eating nance fruit, consult a healthcare professional.
Incorporating Nance Fruit into Your Diet
Here are a few creative ways to add nance fruit to your diet:
- Nance fruit salad: Brighten up your day with a tantalizing tropical fruit salad! This nutritious mix of nance, mango, pineapple and papaya provides the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. Enjoy this healthy snack anytime for an instant burst of energy-packed refreshment!
- Nance smoothie: Blend nance fruit with yogurt, milk, or a non-dairy alternative, and other fruits like bananas or berries for a delicious and nutritious smoothie.
- Nance ceviche: Incorporate nance fruit into a traditional ceviche recipe to add a touch of sweetness and contrast to the tangy and savory flavors.
- Nance salsa: Mix nance fruit with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeño peppers for a unique and tasty salsa.
- Nance fruit preserves: Use nance fruit to prepare jams, jellies, or chutney, which can be spread on toast, served with cheeses, or used as a glaze for meat dishes.
The versatile and nutritious nance fruit is an excellent addition to your diet, offering a delightful tropical flavor and numerous health benefits.