It is unique looking, as it has a bright pink exterior and white flesh with black little seeds.
You may be wondering where you can buy dragon fruit, and where it may be hiding in your local grocery store.
This article is going to explain where you can purchase dragon fruit, as well as the health benefits it carries, and how you should be eating it.
What Is Dragon Fruit?
This fruit grows on a plant named the Hylocereus cactus, which also goes by the name Honolulu queen.
It is a plant that is native to Central America and Mexico, but it is now grown all over the globe.
The two most widely available varieties have bright reddish, pink skin along with some green scales, similar to that of a dragon which is the reason for its name.
While the common varieties have a white pulp with black seeds, there is another type of dragon fruit that has a red-like pulp with black seeds.
There is also another kind of dragon fruit available (although less common), that has yellow skin, with regular white pulp and black seeds.
What Does Dragon Fruit Taste Like?
Although it looks beautiful and exotic, dragon fruit resembles the flavor of many other fruits. Its taste is similar to that of a kiwi and a pear combined and has some subtle earthy notes.
The texture of dragon fruit is also similar to the texture of a kiwi and that of a watermelon.
Some varieties of this fruit have a flesh that is slightly pink. These variations are sweeter than those that are white.
When Is Dragon Fruit In Season?
The season for dragon fruit is normally the summer, so the beginning of June, until the end of September.
That being said, fruit from the Hylocereus megalanthus variety, is normally produced during the winter months, from November to February. It is the variety that produces the yellow dragon fruit.
Due to the different varieties being available at different times of the year, and the fact that it is important to the states from various locations, you are likely to be able to find dragon fruit all year round.
Health Benefits Of Dragon Fruit
Dragon fruit is a delicious and healthy fruit to add to your diet. It contains an array of antioxidants that protect your body from free radicals, that are linked to illness and disease.
Some of these include flavonoids, which are linked to brain and heart health, hydroxycinnamates, which demonstrate anti-cancer abilities, and betalains, which help balance out cholesterol levels.
Dragon fruit is also known for having prebiotic fiber in it, which promotes a healthy gut as it supports the growth of healthy bacteria in this area.
It also has high amounts of vitamin C, as well as iron, and magnesium.
How To Eat It
These beautiful fruits can look intimidating due to their vibrant skin and green scales, but they are very easy to prepare and consume.
Firstly, you must ensure that you have selected a perfectly ripe dragon fruit. These will have a very bright red skin that is even throughout the entire fruit and gives slightly as you squeeze it.
Next, grab a sharp knife and simply slice it in half down the middle. You can then either eat it with a spoon directly from the skin or peel the skin off and chop the flesh into little pieces.
Where To Find Dragon Fruit
Fortunately, it isn’t too hard to find dragon fruit as it is imported from several areas and also grown in some areas in America.
Whole Foods
You are highly likely to find dragon fruit in your nearest Whole Foods. You’ll be able to find organic, non-organic, frozen, and even dried dragon fruit in this store.
Trader Joe’s
Trader Joe’s is a popular retailer, and you are also likely to find dragon fruit here, as well as their delicious red dragon fruit chips! They serve as a wonderful, healthy snack.
Kroger
Kroger also sells dragon fruit, and they sometimes sell it pre-packaged in little bite-sized cubes, perfect for when you need a healthy snack on the go.
Publix
This store is known for supplying visitors with delicious, exotic fruits, so you’re bound to find some delicious dragon fruit there. They’re also likely to sell several different varieties of it.
Health Food Stores
Small, independent health food stores aren’t known for supplying fresh fruits, but if there are any nearby, you may be able to find dried dragon fruit or canned fruit on their shelves.
Farmer;s Market
Farmer’s markets may sell fresh dragon fruit, but it may be dependent on where the fruit is being grown. In America, it is usually grown in California, Florida, and Hawaii. Therefore, if you live around these areas, your local farmer’s market may be selling fresh dragon fruit.
In Which Aisle Can You Find Dragon Fruit?
If you’ve decided to check your local grocery store for some delicious, fresh dragon fruit, then your best bet is to head to the produce aisle where all the fruits and vegetables are.
If they serve dragon fruit, then this is where it should be.
When it comes to commercial production, the main varieties are Hylocereus undatus, which has vibrant pink skin and white flesh, and Hylocereus, which also has pink skin, but more of a pinkish flesh.
Dragon fruit is also very easily processed into other forms, such as powder, chips, drinks, and smoothies, so your grocery store may also sell it in these forms too!
Can You Buy Dragon Fruit Online?
Luckily, it is possible to buy fruits online, including dragon fruit! However, you must bear in mind that you won’t be able to get a good feel of how fresh the fruit is, so your best bet is to head to your nearest grocery store or market in order to search for it.
That being said, if you live somewhere remote where that isn’t too easy, then several online stores will be able to deliver dragon fruit straight to your door!
These include Amazon, Whole Foods, Walmart, and Thrive Market.
Final Thoughts
Dragon fruit is a beautiful-looking fruit that carries many different health benefits, so it is a great addition to any diet.
It carries some beneficial antioxidants, as well as lots of fiber, iron, and magnesium. It is very simple to prepare and is a great addition to all kinds of smoothies and recipes.
Since this fruit is grown all over the world, you are likely to find it in many grocery stores near you, such as Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s.
If you are wanting to find fresh dragon fruit, then you should be able to find it in the produce aisle of your local grocery store.
Aside from this, it is also available frozen, dried, or as chips. These are fun ways of adding it to your diet, as it is a very versatile fruit.
We hope this article has given you some inspiration to go out and find some dragon fruit, and taste its delicious white flesh!
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