When I lived in Nigeria, you could always tell when agbalumo was in season—it was all anyone talked about! Everyone was eager to find the ones with the sweet, not sour, taste.
Choosing between sweet and sour agbalumo always felt like a game of chance. I noticed that the slightly darker ones often leaned more toward sweetness, but even that wasn’t a foolproof method.
What is Agbalumo?
Agbalumo, also known as the African Star Apple (Chrysophyllum albidum), is a tropical fruit native to West Africa, particularly Nigeria.
It is a round fruit with an orange or reddish-brown color and grows on the African star apple tree.
Both the skin and the insides of the this fruit are edible. When opened, the pulp surrounds seeds in segments, resembling an orange.
The word “agbalumo” originates from the Yoruba language, which is one of the major languages spoken in Nigeria.
In other parts of Nigeria, the African Star Apple is known by different names. It is called Udara (Igbo), Otien (Edo), Efik Nsobri (Ibibio/Efik), and Ivoko (Tiv).
It also goes by different names in other countries in West Africa. In Ghana, it is called Alasa. In Sierra Leone, it is known as Atiti, and in Cameroon, it is referred to as Abalolo or Mfom.
What Does It Taste Like
Each Agbalumo has a slightly different taste. Some are sweet while others are sour but they all have a sticky texture.
How is Agbalumo Consumed?
Agbalumo is often enjoyed fresh as a snack. To eat it, peel off the skin and savor the juicy pulp.
It can also be used to create delicious juices, smoothies, jams, and sauces.
This fruit is also incorporated into traditional sweets and desserts.
Nutritional Benefits
Agbalumo is packed with nutrients that support overall health.
It is rich in vitamin C, which boosts immunity and promotes glowing skin.
The fruit is also an excellent source of calcium, dietary fiber for digestive health, and iron, which helps prevent anemia.
Low in calories, agbalumo is a great snack for those managing their weight. Additionally, its antioxidants protect cells from damage and reduce inflammation.
Cultural and Medicinal Uses
In traditional medicine, various parts of the African star apple tree, including the bark and leaves, are used to treat common ailments such as fever, dysentery, and hypertension.
This makes the fruit and its tree not just a culinary delight but also a significant part of natural health remedies in West Africa.
Can You Grow It at Home, and When Is Its Season?
Yes, it can be grown at home, but it thrives best in tropical climates. The tree requires well-drained soil and abundant sunlight to flourish.
Though it may take several years to mature and produce fruit, it is relatively low-maintenance once established.
It is a seasonal fruit, usually harvested during the dry season, from December to March.
Does Agbalumo Expire?
Agbalumo has a relatively short shelf life.
At room temperature, the fruit remains fresh for about three to five days. Once it starts to get bad, when you open the fruit, you will notice tiny worms or maggots. It’s always a good idea to open the fruit and look carefully before you start eating.
Refrigerating it can extend its freshness by a few more days, but it is best consumed soon after purchase for optimal taste and nutritional value.
Can You Freeze Agbalumo?
Yes, you can freeze agbalumo to preserve it for longer periods.
Freezing helps maintain its freshness and prevents spoilage, but the texture might slightly change when thawed.
Can You Eat This Fruit on an Empty Stomach?
Yes, agbalumo can be eaten on an empty stomach. However, some people might find its flavor too strong and should consume it in moderation.
Personally, I prefer to eat something first and use it more as a snack.
Is Agbalumo a Fruit?
Yes, agbalumo is a fruit. It is the fruit of the African star apple tree.
Does This Fruit Have Calories?
Yes, agbalumo contains calories. It is a low-calorie fruit, with most of its energy coming from natural sugars. On average, 100 grams of agbalumo has about 67 calories.
Does This Fruit Increase Blood Sugar?
Agbalumo has natural sugars that may slightly raise blood sugar levels.
However, its high fiber content helps regulate the release of sugar into the bloodstream, making it relatively safe when consumed in moderation.
Are the Seeds of Agbalumo Edible?
No, the seeds are not edible. They are hard and inedible, but they can be used in traditional medicine or crafts in some cultures.
Some people break the seeds open and blend the inner contents for consumption but it is not a common practice.
Is It Safe to Eat Agbalumo During Pregnancy?
Yes, it is safe to eat during pregnancy. However, as with any fruit, it should be consumed in moderation.
In Nigeria, Agbalumo is a hit amongst pregnant women! During my pregnancy, I loved eating agbalumo because it eased my nausea. Anytime I felt queasy I would reach for an Agbalumo!
Is It Safe to Eat or Chew the Skin of the African Star Apple?
While the skin or bark of the African star apple are edible, it is tough and usually not eaten. Most people prefer to peel and eat only the juicy pulp.
I love this article about Agbalumo or Udara. I enjoy eating it. I crave for it all the time but the limitation I have is thst it is a seasonal fruit. I never – knew its high fiber content helps regulate the release of sugar into the bloodstream – I appreciate your knowledge sharing skills. Thanks again.