THE LÚCUMA

THE LÚCUMA 

The lúcuma (Pouteria lucuma) is a subtropical fruit native to the Andean valleys and produced in Peru and Ecuador,.

Lúcuma has been found on ceramics at burial sites of the indigenous people of coastal Peru.The Moche people had a fascination with agriculture and often chose to represent fruits and vegetables, including lúcuma, in their art.

In Peru, harvesting season is from October to March and in Chile from June to November.

HISTORY  AND CHARACTERISTICS

The fruit was first seen and reported by Europeans in Ecuador in 1531.It is sometimes known as lucmo. In the Philippines, it is known as tiesa and may be called "eggfruit" in English, a common name also given to the closely related canistel (Pouteria campechina). The name "eggfruit" refers to lúcuma's dry flesh, which is similar in texture to a hard-boiled egg yolk with a unique flavor of maple and sweet potato. The round or ovoid fruits are green, with a bright yellow flesh that is often fibrous.

 

TAXONOMY

Formerly known as Lucuma obovata, it is now considered a member of the genus Pouteria, and given the name Pouteria lucuma. It is not the species Pouteria obovata.

USES

When eaten raw, the fruit has a dry texture. In Peru it is more commonly enjoyed as a flavor in juice, milk shakes, and especially ice cream. Its unique flavor in such preparations has been described variously as being similar to sweet potato, maple syrup, or butterscotch. A popular dessert called "merengue con salsa de lúcuma" is served in Chile. Also popular in Chile is "manjar con lúcuma" (dulce de lechewith lúcuma purée).

NUTRIENTS

Only limited nutritional information is available and only for lúcuma powder, indicating moderate content of protein and iron, each providing 14% of the Daily Value in a 100 gram serving which supplies 420 calories.

What is Lucuma?

Lucuma in its whole form looks similar to an avocado, with a hard green exterior covering the sweet, soft fruit. The flesh is yellow and has a texture that is slightly reminiscent to that of a dry egg yolk. Many people say the taste of lucuma reminds them of a cross between caramel and a sweet potato. While it does contain a mellow sweetness, it’s low on the glycemic scale and typically suitable for diabetics.

Gold Of The Incas: 7 Health Benefits Of Lucuma

·         1. High in beta-carotene – You might have guessed with its yellow-orange color that lucuma is rich in beta-carotene, an important source of vitamin A which our bodies need for better eyesight, promoting cellular growth, and even helping with immune system reactions. Beta carotene may protect against other cancers as well, including esophageal, liver, pancreatic, colon, rectal, prostate, ovarian, and cervical cancers due to its potency as an antioxidant.

·     2. It is a natural sweetener – Lucuma can sweeten foods without spiking blood sugar, and it contains beneficial nutrients that sugar alone lacks.

·         3. Lucuma is iron-rich – Iron improves the transportation of oxygen into cells and is a vital nutrient to pregnant and breast-feeding women. Proper levels of iron contribute to energy levels as well.

·         4. A vegetarian source rich in niacin (Vitamin B3) – While most meat-eaters get their B3 from steaks and chicken, vegetarians and vegans will enjoy this vitamin from lucuma. This nutrient aids in digestion, muscle development, and the regulation of stress and sex hormones.

·       5. Fiber–rich food – This super fruit is full of fiber, which can help the digestive system work properly, reducing constipation and bloating.

·               6. Wound Healing and anti-Inflammatory – Try an anti-inflammatory cinnamon, ginger, lucuma smoothie for a healthy and tasty treat.

·       7. Lucuma Nut oil is anti-viral and anti-bacterial – This super fruit can also prevent colds, flu, and other viral or bacterial diseases, possibly making it a sound substitute for pharmaceutical antibiotics in many cases.

 

Health Benefits

In ancient records, lucuma fruit was said to be used to support skin health and digestion. Recent studies have shown that lucuma oil may be helpful for supporting wound healing by encouraging the activation of healing factors within the skin.

Fresh lúcuma is the best!

It’s tasty starchy flesh melts in your mouth with a custardy like flavor. If you are luck to be in Peru during the summer months, from January to April, you can find it in most markets. Also many specialty ice cream shops usually make their own using fresh Lucuma which is the best. You have to try it! 

Finding fresh Lucuma in the US: To our knowledge commercial plantations of lucuma are mostly found in Peru and Chile. Since the lucuma fruit ripens quickly and is delicate, exporting it fresh has proven challenging so we don't it is yet available in the US. Although there are rumors that some growers in California and Hawaii are trying it or so we hope. 

Frozen Lucuma

The best next option to fresh fruit is finding it frozen! Here in Florida, we discovered a great source for the frozen pulp at our local Latin American mini mart. With this fruit pulp mixed with a little vanilla ice-cream, we make yummy shakes! 

Lucuma ice cream is a Peruvian favorite!

In Peru, the lucuma ice cream ranks as #1 in popularity before even the well known vanilla and chocolate flavors! 

With Peruvian food gaining popularity as one of the most flavorful and rich cuisines of the planet, Peruvian restaurants are popping everywhere. So if you happen to visit one, make sure to ask if they serve Lucuma ice-cream!