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What is the Mysterious ‘Trái Thù Lù’ Fruit That Commands a Price of 400,000 VND per Kilo?

Introducing the exotic and elusive finger lime - the intriguing fruit that has captured the attention of food enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals alike. With its unique appearance and exceptional nutritional profile, this rare gem demands a premium price, yet it continues to be sought-after by those in the know. So, what is it about this tiny citrus fruit that warrants such a hefty price tag? Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of the finger lime and uncover the secrets behind its allure.

Administrator

11 July, 2024

The tầm bóp tree is certainly familiar to those from rural Vietnam. But what is the South American tầm bóp, and how does it differ from its Vietnamese counterpart? Let’s find out.

1. What is the Thù Lù (South American Tầm Bóp) fruit?

What is the Thù Lù (South American Tầm Bóp) fruit?

The South American Tầm Bóp, or Physalis Peruviana, is native to the Andes mountain range in South America. This fruit is a relative of the cherry tomato and is characterized by its natural protective covering.

The South American tầm bóp was first cultivated by the ancient Incas and later spread to other South American countries such as Colombia, Chile, Brazil, and Peru. Today, it is also grown in African and Asian countries, including Vietnam.

The fruit is spherical, with a diameter of 1.5-2.5 cm and a weight of 6-10 grams. It has a golden-orange color and a unique flavor that combines notes of strawberry, pineapple, kiwi, apple, and tomato, resulting in a distinctive sweet and sour taste.

According to some, the fruit’s protective covering makes it a favorite among children, who enjoy crushing the ripe fruits to hear the small popping sound it makes. “When the Thù Lù fruits ripen, the whole tree looks like it’s adorned with lanterns. The fruits are golden, fragrant, and have a delightful sweet and sour taste”, they say.

2. Benefits of the Tầm Bóp Fruit

According to Ms. Bùi Thị Nga, Director of Song Nga International Co., Ltd., in Lâm Đồng province, there are about 100 varieties of tầm bóp worldwide, each with unique characteristics and growth patterns. However, they all share the common feature of having a protective covering.

Notably, the tầm bóp fruit is an exceptionally rich source of Vitamin A, containing 10 times more than cherries, three times more than blueberries, 13 times more than blackberries, and 60 times more than strawberries by weight.

Despite its humble name, the tầm bóp fruit boasts extraordinary health benefits that justify its high price tag.

The fruit is also an excellent source of Vitamin C and Vitamin B3, as well as minerals such as potassium, phosphorus, and calcium. Incorporating tầm bóp into your diet can offer the following advantages:

Liver and Antioxidant Protection

The tầm bóp fruit is believed to be highly beneficial for liver and kidney health and possesses antioxidant properties due to its Alkaloids, Andolides, Flavonoid, and pp Ethanol content. These compounds can help improve and treat liver and kidney-related conditions while also producing high levels of antioxidants in the body.

Support for Pregnant Women

With an iron content of up to 1.4mg/140g, the tầm bóp fruit is an excellent source of iron for pregnant women, who have increased iron requirements during pregnancy to maintain and boost their body’s defenses.

Pain and Inflammation Reduction

The fruit is also a rich source of beta-carotene, which is beneficial for improving joint flexibility and reducing pain and inflammation. Regularly including tầm bóp in your diet can help alleviate joint pain and inflammation.

3. How to Use the Tầm Bóp Fruit

The tầm bóp fruit is versatile and can be consumed in various ways, including raw, in salads, cakes, jams, juices, or as a decorative element on dishes.

Here are some delicious dishes that can be prepared using the South American tầm bóp:

Tầm Bóp Salad

Tầm Bóp Yogurt

Tầm Bóp Smoothie

In conclusion, this article has provided a comprehensive overview of the South American tầm bóp, a unique and special fruit. If you haven’t tried this extraordinary fruit yet, be sure to purchase it from a reputable fruit vendor. It’s sure to impress!

Frequently asked questions

Trai thu lu is a rare and exotic fruit native to the Central Highlands of Vietnam. It is known for its unique appearance, with a spiky outer shell and a soft, creamy flesh. The taste has been described as a combination of mango, jackfruit, and durian, with a hint of sweetness and a creamy texture. Due to its rarity, delicate nature, and the fact that it is highly perishable, the fruit commands a high price of 400,000 VND (approximately $17 USD) per kilo.

The trai thu lu fruit is rare due to the specific growing conditions it requires. It thrives in areas with volcanic soil, moderate altitudes, and a warm, humid climate. Additionally, the tree that bears the fruit is quite delicate and susceptible to diseases, further limiting its cultivation. The fruit also has a very short season, typically ripening between March and May, making it a highly seasonal delicacy.

The trai thu lu fruit is believed to have several health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants, vitamins C and E, and minerals such as potassium and magnesium. It is said to boost the immune system, improve digestion, and lower blood pressure. Additionally, the fruit’s high fiber content may aid in weight loss and improve overall digestive health.

The trai thu lu fruit can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. The most common method is to cut the fruit in half and scoop out the creamy flesh with a spoon. It can also be blended into smoothies, used as a topping for yogurt or ice cream, or incorporated into desserts such as cakes and puddings. The seeds of the fruit are edible and are said to have a nutty flavor.

Due to its rarity, the trai thu lu fruit may be hard to find outside of Vietnam. In Vietnam, it is typically sold in specialty fruit markets or by street vendors during its short season. Some online retailers may also offer the fruit, either fresh or in processed forms such as dried slices or puree, but availability will vary depending on the time of year.