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Snake fruit is also known as Salak and is found in Southeast Asia. It has a very different appearance as the outer layer of the fruit resembles the scales of a snakeskin. Because of its unique outer appearance, it instantly stands out among other fruits. Many people often call it the strangest fruit in the world. Not only does the snake fruit have a different outer appearance, but it also has a very unique taste and is used for different purposes among the local people where it's grown. Let's have a look at how this fruit is different from the other fruits in terms of flavours and nutrition.
* Unique Appearance
Snake fruit has a very captivating look and it stands out among other fruits instantly. The fruit has got its name because of its scaly flesh that resembles the scales of a snake. The fruit is generally available in reddish-brown colour and the darkness may depend from fruit to fruit. The skin on the outer surface of the fruit has a purpose as it serves as a protective layer to defend the appetising sweet flesh inside the fruit. At first glance, you may think that this fruit is not edible but this is one of the most scrumptious fruits that you will ever taste.
* Indonesian Fruit
This tropical fruit is grown in Indonesia specifically and the cultivation is quite rampant in areas like Jawa, Bali and Sumatra. It is from Indonesia that this fruit got popularised and got transported to fellow tropical countries like Thailand, the Philippines and Malaysia. The cultivation of this fruit can be carried out best in tropical environments where there is a high level of moisture in the air.
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* Flavourful
Looking at this fruit one can never fathom the treasure that is inside the rusty and scaly exterior. It is a delightful fruit from the outside that has a very juicy flesh with subtle flavours of sweetness and sometimes even tanginess. Some people also find this fruit having a hybrid flavour of apple and pineapple. Among the natives, this food is consumed in multiple ways. Some people like to eat it as it is, while others like to add fruit to their salads, desserts, jams and even stews.
* Different Varieties
Snake fruit is just an umbrella term that is used to define a lot of varieties of this particular fruit that can be found. The taste and the texture of this fruit change as per the area it is grown. For example, one of the most popular types of snake fruit is the one that is grown in Bali. This is known as Salak Baki. Other popular snake fruit varieties include Salak Pondoh and Salak Bali Merah. The flavour of these different varieties of this nature, fruit or not entirely different. There is only a subtle difference in undertones of the flavours of the fruit and the shape and colour of the external flash might also vary.
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* Nutrition Dense
Snake fruit is nutritious and has a very delicious taste. It is a very rich source of vitamin C, potassium, antioxidants and fibre. It is a very nutritious fruit that you can add to your salads or even desserts. It instantly increases the nutritional value of any food. You can also have this by itself as the taste of this fruit is addictive and at the same time, it gives so many nutrients and antioxidants to the body.
* Benefits For Health
This fruit has a lot of health benefits and the reason why it is so popular among the natives is not just because of its delectable taste. The antioxidants present in the fruit help in boosting the immune system and the high fibre content present in the fruit can promote the digestive health of the body. Instead of eating unhealthy desserts, having a bowl of these fruits can be the most satisfying yet nutritious dessert.
* Harvesting
The cultivation of snake fruit is a very meticulous process as these fruits are quite delicate. The harvesting of these fruits is carried out 2 to 3 times a year depending upon the season. It is generally harvested from late fall to early winter but it may vary depending upon the regional variety. Generally, this fruit is available throughout the year in the places where it's grown.
* Cultural Significance
Snake fruit holds a deep cultural meaning among the natives. It is used in a lot of traditional ceremonies and celebrations and is also offered to people during religious events. Due to its unique appearance, it is also considered a symbol of prosperity and happiness. People in countries like Indonesia, Thailand and the Philippines consider it an important part of their cultural identity.
We hope that you have been able to get a lot of information about the lesser-known snake fruit that is grown in many tropical countries of Southeast Asia. It is one of those fruits that truly justifies the famous phrase ‘appearances can be deceptive’.
