Dragon Fruit - Yellow Pitahaya

Origin - Thailand 🇹🇭
Class - CAT 1
Approx Unit Weight - 250 grams each

Introduction

The dragon fruit is actually a species of cactus which is indigenous to the Americas. It is classified within the broad category of pitaya or pitahaya which also belong to the family Cactaceae. Dragon fruits are a distinct category of pitaya known as the sweet pitaya and they are different compared to sour pitaya variety both in taste and in texture. Sweet pitaya come in three types known as white-fleshed pitaya, red-fleshed pitaya and yellow pitaya. The yellow pitaya (Hylocereus megalanthus) is believed to have the largest flowers of all cacti and as the name implies it has a distinctive yellow fruit.

History

It originated from America and specifically it is native in the areas of Peru, Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, and Bolivia. The fruits are still cultivated there and exported all over the world with Colombia being the largest producer. 

Regions

Apart from the South American areas, the fruit has been introduced in the USA and it is now cultivated in southern California and in Florida.

Flavours & Texture

Its flavour is mild and sweet with some floral notes and it resembles the taste of kiwifruit or cactus pear. Many people believe that it has the sweetest and finest taste of all pitaya. Its flesh also has a slight crunch but it is softer when compared to watermelon.  

Preparation

You can cut it in half lengthwise down the middle and then slide a spoon in between the skin and the flesh. Note that the skin is not edible. You can eat it raw in a fruit salad, in a juice or smoothies.

Nutritional Value

The yellow pitaya is a good source of vitamins, proteins and it contains zero fats.