Winter's Delight: A Handbook for Selecting and Indulging in Exquisite Fruits

As winter casts its chilly spell, nature bestows upon us a bountiful array of exquisite fruits that bring warmth and delight to our palates. Join us on a journey through the winter wonderland of fruits, where taste and health intertwine.

Apples - The Antioxidant Powerhouse

Apples, the versatile fruits available all year round in Vietnam, are not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and antioxidants that contribute to reducing the risk of cancer. When selecting apples, opt for plump, round ones without any crushing or bruising.

Look for a fresh and intact skin. Gently squeeze the apple to ensure it is firm and whole. For a sweeter taste, choose darker apples with a small white hole in the skin. Avoid mushy, damaged, or pest-infested apples. The best apples will be round, hard, and heavy when held in your hand. To test their crispness, flick your finger on the apple - a loud and clear sound indicates a deliciously crisp apple.

Persimmons - Nature's Sweet Gems

In the romantic land of Đà Lạt, persimmon trees adorned with orange-colored fruits paint a mesmerizing picture. Ripe persimmons, available from October onwards, offer a sweet, soft, and juicy treat. If you prefer a crispy texture, consider a unique preservation method. The finest persimmons are carefully selected and stored in plastic bags, allowing them to develop a delightful crunchiness over ten days. For further preservation, imperfect persimmons are dried by peeling, cleaning, and tying them up with a string. Hung separately in a windy and cool area, they transform into dark orange and light brown dried fruits over a few weeks. Dried persimmons are a concentrated delight, with an average of 7-8kg of fresh fruit condensed into 1kg of dried goodness.

Star Apple (Vu Sua) - The Milk Fruit

Star apple, or vu sua in Vietnamese, is a commonly grown fruit in Southern orchards. With its smooth peel available in green or violet hues, this round fruit is roughly the size of an orange. The fruit's skin is tight and shiny, while the interior reveals fragrant, white pulp with a mellow sweet flavor. To savor this delectable fruit, simply cut it in half and scoop out the pulp, discarding the seeds. Alternatively, indulge in a creamy and sweet star apple smoothie made with milk and condensed milk for an irresistible treat.

Langsat (Bon Bon) - The Lesser-Known Gem

Native to Southeast Asia, langsat is one of Vietnam's lesser-known fruits. Its small, pale yellow appearance hides a translucent and juicy pulp that is delightfully sweet. To enjoy langsat, peel off the thin skin and relish the sweet and juicy fruit while discarding the seeds.

Winter brings forth a bountiful array of delightful fruits in Vietnam. From the antioxidant-rich apples to the sweet and unique flavors of persimmons, star apples, and langsat, these winter fruits offer both nourishment and culinary pleasure. Embark on a journey of taste and explore the wonders of these seasonal treasures.

As we bid farewell to the winter season, let us cherish the memories of indulging in the delightful flavors of these exquisite fruits. Whether enjoyed fresh, transformed into delectable desserts, or preserved for future delights, these winter fruits have left an indelible mark on our taste buds and hearts.