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Pitahaya is the name given to the fruit of several different species of cacti. The plant is native to Central and South America and is cultivated in Southeast Asia. Pitahaya is also known as dragon fruit. About the size of a mango with pinkish-red skin, it has long, green, curvy spikes that resemble the plates of a dragon or the fins of a tropical fish. Pitahaya flowers are unique because they bloom only at night and are, thus, known as moonflowers. These flowers can be consumed as a food or brewed into a beverage (tea.)
Like kiwi, the skin of the pitahaya is inedible and the flesh has numerous, small, black edible seeds that give it a characteristic texture. The flesh can be white or red; red varieties are very high in antioxidants. Pitahaya is most often enjoyed chilled and eaten raw, with a spoon, out of the skin. It can also be made into juice or wine, and is used to make flavored water in Mexico. Pitahaya is rich in fiber and vitamin C. |
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