The Mythical Dragon Fruit
I’m a huge fan of the delicious Dragon Fruit, which I buy daily at the fresh food market here in Chiang Mai. If eaten prematurely, Dragon Fruit tastes insipid and somewhat tart. However, when fully ripened, their flavour becomes faintly sweet and syrupy. To me ripe Dragon Fruit tastes like a blend of kiwi, pear, and watermelon. The flavour is quite subtle, with a slightly earthy undertone. Also known as pink pitaya, Dragon Fruit is a tropical fruit native to Central and South America and is cultivated in other regions such as Asia, Australia, and the Caribbean. The fruit is so named because of its scaly skin that resembles the mythical dragon, and its shape is similar to that of an elongated oval. The outer skin of Dragon Fruit varies from pink to red, or even yellow, while the interior is white or red, speckled with small, black seeds. In Thailand, fresh Dragon Fruit is commonly used in various dishes, such as smoothies, salads, and desserts. This fruit is also a popular healthy snack among the locals and tourists alike.
As per the data from the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives of Thailand, in 2018, Dragon Fruit was grown on approximately 5,000 hectares and produced around 52,830 tonnes of fruits. The high yield and increasing demand for Dragon Fruit have made it a popular crop among Thai farmers. The fruit is also being exported to various other countries. Dragon Fruit is a low-calorie, nutrient-rich fruit that offers a variety of benefits. It is a rich source of vitamin C, antioxidants, and fibre, which can help to boost our immune system and promote healthy digestion. The fruit is also low in calories, making it a healthy snack option for those looking to maintain or lose weight. One of the most significant benefits of Dragon Fruit is its high antioxidant content. Antioxidants are compounds that protect our cells from damage by free radicals, which are harmful molecules that can cause inflammation and chronic diseases. The antioxidants in Dragon Fruit help to neutralise these free radicals, reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
Dragon Fruit is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is a natural immune response that can help to protect the body against foreign invaders like bacteria or viruses. However, chronic inflammation can lead to a variety of health problems, including allergies, asthma, and arthritis. The anti-inflammatory compounds in Dragon Fruit can help to reduce inflammation in the body, promoting overall wellness. In addition to being nutritious and healthy, dragon fruit is versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. The fruit can be sliced and eaten as a healthy snack or used as a topping for yogurt, oatmeal or smoothie bowls. Dragon Fruit can also be used as an ingredient in recipes such as salads, salsa, and desserts.
Freeze-Dried Dragon Fruit Powder
Freeze-Dried Dragon Fruit Powder is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of foods and beverages. This super-food has a sweet and tangy flavour with a mild texture, making it an excellent ingredient to add to smoothies, desserts, and other recipes. Freeze-drying, also known as lyophilization, is a process of removing moisture from the fruit by first freezing it and then rapidly evaporating the frozen water through a vacuum. This results in a dry, lightweight and shelf-stable powdered Dragon Fruit with a longer shelf life, while preserving its nutritional content, taste and texture. Let’s explore some of the different ways you can use Freeze-Dried Dragon Fruit Powder.
- Smoothies
One popular way to use Dragon Fruit Powder is to add it to smoothies. You can use it as a substitute for fresh Dragon Fruit, or you can use it in addition to other fruits and vegetables. Dragon Fruit Powder adds a pop of colour and a unique flavour to smoothies, making them extra tasty and healthy.
- Desserts
You can also use dragon fruit powder in desserts such as cakes, muffins, and cookies. The powder gives a bright pink colour and subtle sweetness to your desserts. It makes a great addition to dairy-free desserts, as it adds creaminess without any dairy products.
- Yogurt or Oatmeal
Another way to use Dragon Fruit Powder is to mix it into yogurt or oatmeal. This is a quick and easy way to add flavour and colour to your breakfast. Plus, it adds a boost of antioxidants and vitamins to your morning meal.
- Iced Tea or Lemonade
You can also use Dragon Fruit Powder to make refreshing summer drinks like iced tea or lemonade. The powder can dissolve easily in liquid, making it a convenient ingredient to use. It adds a fruity flavour and beautiful hue to your health-boosting drinks.
- Sauces & Salad Dressings
Dragon Fruit Powder can be used to make delicious sauces and salad dressings. Just mix the powder with your favourite herbs and spices, along with some oil and vinegar or lemon juice, to create a flavourful dressing. It's a healthier alternative to store-bought dressings, as it contains no preservatives or additives.
Dragon Fruit’s Confirmed Health Benefits
- High in Antioxidants: Dragon Fruit is rich in antioxidants such as vitamin C, which helps protect the body from harmful free radicals.
- Good for Digestion: The fibre in Dragon Fruit can aid in digestion and prevent constipation.
- Boosts Immune System: The high levels of vitamin C and other essential nutrients in Dragon Fruit can help boost the immune system.
- Lowers Cholesterol: Dragon Fruit contains flavonoids, which can help reduce bad cholesterol levels in your body.
- Good for Heart Health: The potassium in Dragon Fruit can help regulate blood pressure and promote heart health.
- Helps Control Blood Sugar: The fibre in Dragon Fruit can help regulate blood sugar levels, making it a good food choice for people with diabetes.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Dragon Fruit contains anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body.
- Promotes Weight-Loss: The low calorie content and high fibre content of Dragon Fruit can help with weight-loss and weight management.
In a nutshell, fresh Dragon Fruit as well as Freeze-Dried Dragon Fruit Powder is a versatile and healthy ingredient that can be used in many different ways. Its sweet and tangy flavour makes it a popular ingredient in smoothies, desserts, and beverages. It's also a great addition to yogurt, oatmeal, sauces, and salad dressings, providing an extra boost of nutrition to your meals. So, go ahead and try using Ancient Purity Dragon Fruit in your next creative recipe!
