10/4/2011
WHAT IS THAT?
Its call Carambola or Star Fruit. Most Belizeans, know this fruit by the name, "Five Fingers".
The carambola, five finger fruit (as it is called here in Belize), has been nicknamed the "star fruit" because, when sliced crosswise, it is shaped like a star. The star fruit is grow abundantly here in Belize. They are mainly found in tropical areas including the Caribbean, Hawaii, Central America, and parts of South America and Asia. It has a thin glossy golden-yellow skin and translucent (permits light to shine through) yellow flesh.
A star fruit, which does not have to be peeled, may be sweet or tart depending on the variety. It may be eaten whole, or used in salads, desserts, or as a garnish.
The "Five Fingers" tree attains a height of 30 feet and produces small, fragrant, rose-coloured flowers throughout the year. The tree also produces fruits more than once per year. On the tree the fruit has a variety of appearances. The very ripe fruit has a golden yellow colour; half-ripe its a lemon green and unripe they are very green, all can be eaten. It also has a variety of tastes when eaten raw. The fruit is sweet, watery, slightly acid and pleasant to taste. When the fruit is cut across it has a striking star shape, hence the reason for the name. The skin of the fruit is thin and somewhat waxy and there's no need to peel the fruit, although the outer edge of the ribs may be removed if they are bruised.
I'm always offering samples of fruits and vegetables at my fruit stand. Stop by and try the this exotic tropical five finger fruit next time you pass by.
