The quenepa is a fascinating and nutritious tropical fruit known by many names, including Spanish lime, ackee, genipe, limoncillo, mamoncillo, and honeyberry. This small, juicy fruit offers a distinctive flavor, often described as a mix between lime and lychee.
Despite its name suggesting a citrus connection, the quenepa isn’t part of the citrus family. However, it shares a similar tropical habitat, growing abundantly in the Caribbean and South American climates.
A Burst of Tropical Flavor
Quenepa’s taste can vary from tart to sweet. Sour types are often paired with chili, lime, and salt for a spicy snack, while sweeter varieties are simply enjoyed by cracking the outer green shell and sucking out the pulp, much like eating a lychee.
Nutritional Powerhouse
Packed with essential nutrients, quenepas deliver a rich supply of vitamins A, B-complex, and C, along with important minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and iron.
They also provide proteins, amino acids (notably tryptophan and lysine), healthy fats, phytonutrients, and dietary fiber.
Beyond the pulp, roasted quenepa seeds offer antioxidant and antifungal properties.
Traditionally, ground seeds mixed with water have been used as a natural remedy for diarrhea.
Both the pulp and fruit itself possess antibacterial and antifungal properties, with potential health benefits that include:
- Supporting digestion
- Lowering blood pressure
- Relieving asthma and other respiratory conditions, particularly where electrolyte imbalances (like low phosphorus) are present
- Helping with constipation
- Managing cholesterol levels
- Regulating blood sugar
- Easing symptoms of herpes simplex and labialis due to high lysine content
- Promoting sleep, thanks to tryptophan, which is needed for serotonin production, a key hormone for sleep regulation
Altogether, this vibrant fruit nourishes the body in many ways and can be eaten fresh, juiced, or cooked into spreads like jam.
How to Enjoy Quenepa: Juice Recipe
CONTINUE READING ON THE NEXT PAGE 🥰💕
