HALWAI ADMIN  2020-10-05

🍇🌴 8 Rare Exotic Fruits You've Probably Never Tried (But Should!)

If you're a fruit lover with a craving for the unusual, you're in for a treat. Around the globe, nature has gifted us with a wild variety of exotic fruits—some delicious, some bizarre, and some just plain mind-blowing. Forget your average apple or banana—here are 8 rare exotic fruits that will spark your curiosity (and maybe your taste buds too).

1. Jabuticaba (Brazil)

Ever seen a tree that looks like it’s growing grapes right out of its trunk? That’s the Jabuticaba! Native to Brazil, this dark-purple fruit has sweet, tart skin and a juicy, jelly-like center. It’s often turned into wine, jam, or liqueur, but freshly picked, it's like nature's candy.

📍 Where to find it: Brazil, sometimes in specialty Latin American markets.

2. Buddha’s Hand (Asia)

This citrus fruit looks like a bright yellow octopus or a spooky hand from a cartoon. While it doesn't have much pulp or juice, it makes up for it with its intense lemon fragrance. Perfect for zesting, candying, or just making your kitchen smell heavenly.

📍 Where to find it: China, India, Japan, and some high-end grocery stores.

3. Rambutan (Southeast Asia)

Meet lychee’s wild cousin. With its hairy red or yellow shell, Rambutan looks like something from a Dr. Seuss book. Crack it open to reveal sweet, translucent flesh with a juicy, floral taste.

📍 Where to find it: Thailand, Malaysia, and specialty Asian markets.

4. Durian (Southeast Asia)

The most controversial fruit on the list. Durian is known as the "King of Fruits"—and also banned in hotels and public transit due to its infamous smell. But if you can get past that, you’ll discover a rich, custard-like interior with a flavor that fans describe as sweet, creamy, and… weirdly cheesy.

📍 Where to find it: Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, or frozen at Asian supermarkets.

5. Salak / Snake Fruit (Indonesia)

Named for its scaly, snake-like skin, Salak is crunchy and has a flavor that blends apple, banana, and a hint of citrus. It’s tangy, sweet, and totally unique. Peeling it feels weirdly satisfying too.

📍 Where to find it: Indonesia and select Southeast Asian markets.

6. Miracle Fruit (West Africa)

This little red berry doesn’t just taste good—it changes how you taste everything. After eating it, sour foods (like lemons or vinegar) taste incredibly sweet for about an hour. It’s like nature’s magic trick!

📍 Where to find it: West Africa, or online from specialty fruit suppliers.

7. Horned Melon / Kiwano (Africa)

Spiky, alien-looking, and neon green inside, the Horned Melon tastes like cucumber met banana with a citrus twist. It’s super refreshing and packed with antioxidants—plus, it looks awesome sliced open.

📍 Where to find it: Sub-Saharan Africa, New Zealand, and sometimes Whole Foods.

8. Mangosteen (Southeast Asia)

The “Queen of Fruits” is hard to find fresh, but so worth it. Its thick purple rind hides soft, white fruit segments that are juicy, sweet, and a little tangy. It's floral, tropical, and absolutely divine.

📍 Where to find it: Thailand, Vietnam, or frozen in specialty stores.

Ready to Go Fruit Hunting?

Some of these fruits are tough to find outside their native regions, but that’s part of the adventure! Keep an eye out at international markets or online exotic fruit shops—and who knows, you might discover a new favorite.

Have you tried any of these fruits? Got another exotic favorite? Drop it in the comments!