The lúcuma is a subtropical fruit native to theAndean region. Lucuma has been found on ceramics at burial sites of the indigenous people of coastal Peru. The Mochepeople had a fascination with agriculture and often chose to represent fruits and vegetables, including lucuma, in their art.
The fruit was first seen and reported by Europeans in theChinchasuyu region of the Inca Empire in 1531. It is sometimes known as lucmo. It is also called “eggfruit” in English, a common name also given to the closely relatedcanistel (Pouteria campechina). The name “eggfruit” refers to the fruits’ dry flesh, which is similar in texture to a hard-boiled egg yolk. The lucuma has particularly dry flesh which possesses a unique flavor of maple and sweet potato. It is a very nutritious fruit, having high levels of carotene, vitamin B3, and other B vitamins. The round or ovoid fruits are green, with a bright yellow flesh that is often fibrous. It grows at temperate elevations, between 1,000-2,400 metres. Temperatures of its elevated native range make the species technically subtropical, even though its native region is strictly tropical. It has been grown successfully in subtropical foothills of California. Attempts at growing lucuma in Florida’s climate typically fail. In addition to Ecuador, Peru, and Chile, the fruit is grown also to a limited extent in Bolivia and Costa Rica. It grows well in most tropical regions, but is not widely favored. Within its own genus there are multiple species considered to have a superior flavor, such as the Mamey (Pouteria sapota), Abiu (P. caimito), Canistel (P. campechina), Green Sapote (P. viridis).
Lucuma has got a rich, creamy texture and will turns raw food creations into gourmet heavenly delights.
Lucuma powder is really versatile and tasty, blending easily and well with ice-creams (see below), baby food, raw cakes, raw cookies, smoothies, Raw Chocolate and desserts of all kinds.
Health Benefits of Lucuma
Lucuma is an excellent source of carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals including plentiful concentrations of beta-carotene, which makes it a powerful immune system booster. It is rich in iron, B2 and B1. It`s also high in niacin, which makes it a cholesterol and triglyceride balancer.
The fruit has a slightly breast like appearance and has been associated with fertility and nourishment by the cultures who have enjoyed it. It is a great sweetener for women who are breastfeeding.
