Star Fruit

Star fruit is the fruit of the carambola tree, which is native to Sri Lanka, India and Indonesia but is commercially grown in Australia and North and South America as well.  The fruit derives its name from the fact that when cut horizontally, the slices look like five- or six-pointed stars.  The outer skin is tough, waxy and green before it ripens, mellowing to yellow as it matures.  Unripened star fruit is edible, but is crunchier and less juicy than ripened fruits.  The flavor profile, like an apple or a pear, is sweet with some tartness, but also acidic, like lemon or pineapple.  Having said that, star fruit has a very mild taste overall.  Two varieties of star fruit exist:  acidulate and sweet.  The tart (acidulate) varieties have narrower ribs than the sweet. 

Star fruit is an excellent source of vitamin C.  A versatile fruit, it can be enjoyed raw and used in both sweet and savory dishes.  Its sweetness is highlighted in fruit salads, smoothies, puddings, tarts and preserves, but the flavor--often in the form of curries, chutneys or relishes--also complements chicken, fish and rice dishes in the cuisines of many countries.  Star fruit can also be made into a refreshing, lemonade-style beverage.

Available Star Fruit Products:

• Starfruit Puree
  • Frozen Starfruit Puree,
    Minimum 6.5° Brix
  • Puree Concentrate
• Dehydrated (Dried) Starfruit