Here are the 10 local fruits of Malaysia -
1. Durian
Popularly called the king of Malaysian fruits, Durian is a succulent fruit that actually looks like a king in the bandwagon of fruits. The gigantic prickly jacket encloses a soft and decadent flesh that is not just creamy but is a bittersweet fusion of what settles in the mouth as a cocktail of flavours that ultimately pleases the palate. Season: June to August, also found from November and January.
2. Rambutan
You may crack up from what it looks on the outside but it's oh-so-good on the inside. There's a reason why it gets this name because it looks like a hairy (Rambut in Malay) giant (hutan in Malay). It's crimson skin and the snow-white color combination is eye-catching. It is a cousin of the Chinese lychee given its translucent flesh and silk texture. Rich in Vitamin C, this Malaysia fruit is great to binge on, guilt-free! Season: June to August, also found from November to January.
3. Mangosteen
Bearing a tiny crown-like coronet on its forehead, the Mangosteen is rightfully baptized as the queen of Malaysia fruits. Not just because of its little tiara but the Mangosteen is also consumed during the Durian season right after the durian feast. This fruit from Malaysia is popular as it helps prevent health ailments including cholesterol and cancer. The white flesh that it sustains is extremely sweet and it is to be ripped apart, piece by piece, like an orange. Season: June to August, also found from November and January.
4. Cempedek
Resembling a jackfruit, the Cempedek is a beautiful custard-like fruit of Malaysia that is super sweet and can be eaten in many ways. Fry it or eat it fresh, roast the seeds or juice it up, the Cempedek is a mighty fruit that you won't regret digging into. However, an absolutely ripe Cempedek may release a strong smell. It is quite a hit in Malaysia and tourists never return without a bite of the fried version which is commonly found in local markets. Season: May to July, also found between November and February.
5. Langsat
A not so known fact about Langsat is that it can cure colon cancer and help with constipation. That's right, if you know this, you'll be devouring even the mild sourness of this transparent fleshy fruit which renders nothing but health benefits. A bite of it yields a punch of good juices filled with fibre. The Langsat isn't so unique to Malaysia but is sure a hit in the country. A bit of sweet and sour of the fruit helps strike a balance with the flavours and bring optimum mouthfeel. Season: June to August
6. Wax/Rose/Honey Apple
Looks like a red bell pepper but tastes and feels like an apple, Rose Apple, or colloquially called Jambu Air is a refreshing combination of sweet and sour water. Its waxy sheath, bright crimson colour, and a crunchier texture separate it from a native apple. Wax Apple is rich in Vitamin C and best eaten fresh straight from a supermarket. Season: March to May and August to November
7. Starfruit
Deriving its name from its five angle appearance, the starfruit, commonly called Carambola is nearly found all around the year. Packed with essential vitamins and minerals, a starfruit every day is sure to keep health woes away. The yellowish waxy skin on the outside is the sweeter version of the starfruit, whereas the light green one is for those who like the sweet-sour flavours of fruit. One can consume all of the fruit without wasting its exterior. Season: April to June, also found between October to December.
8. Pomelo
A popular Chinese belief that revolves around Pomelo is that it is a symbol of good fortune and prosperity. Also called the Chinese grapefruit, Pomelo bears a juicy sweet white flesh that you can't help but gorge on. The jacket or rind needs to be cut through to get to the edible part of Pomelo. It consists of at least 10 slices which you slowly extract like an orange. Close to the size of a child's play ball, the fruit is the biggest citrus fruit in Malaysia and also the most sought after one! Season: August to October, also found between January to March.
9. Snake Fruit
If one were to find a fusion fruit of pineapple and banana, it would be the Malaysian snake fruit. This one's for those who like the taste of a juicy citrus punch along with a heavenly sweetness at the end of the palate. The snake fruit is a conical shaped brown fruit with scales that are found on the skin of a snake. Packed with vitamins, the cream-colored fruit on the inside is hard to resist. Season: July-September
10. Jambu Batu
The popular Indian guava is a favourite of Malaysians. However, it sure doesn't taste exactly like the Indian one. The light green sheath which when cut, gives way to a beautiful red and firm fruit which yields a sweet and sour taste. Usually eaten with the skin, people add black salt before consuming the Jambu Batu. Season: All around the yearThese are some of the local Malaysian fruits which you might not find all around the world. Other fruits like watermelon, papaya, Cheeku (Malay ciku), mango, and more are also available. Fruits are especially a favourite of those weary tourists who have been hopping and excavating all the beautiful landmarks and locales of Malaysia. It acts as a perfect refreshment and a healthy choice too!
So you know which fruits to devour when you hit-up Malaysia next!
Tell us your favourite Malaysian fruit in the comments below!