We bet that when you think of fruits, you immediately think of apples, bananas, or strawberries? But today, we’re going to explore a territory that’s a bit more… exotic! Get ready to meet some lesser-known fruits that start with the letter “i.” Because yes, there’s more to life than just yam! You will discover incredible flavors, textures, and stories.
The icaco: the tropical fruit that dreams are made of
The icaco may not have the fame of mango or papaya, but it fully deserves a place on your plate. Originating from the Caribbean, this small round fruit is often dark purple or black when ripe. Its sweet taste with a slightly tangy hint makes it an excellent natural snack.
Why you should try icaco?
- Rich in antioxidants, it helps fight against cell aging (a natural anti-wrinkle ally, what could be better?).
- It is packed with fiber: perfect for your digestion.
- It boosts your immunity thanks to its high vitamin C content.
A little tasty advice: turn it into jams or smoothies, it’s just to die for!
The yam: much more than a tuber
Okay, the yam is technically a vegetable, but we couldn’t ignore it. In some tropical countries, it’s an absolute staple of the diet. And for good reason, this tuber is an incredible source of energy.
If you’ve never tasted roasted yam with a bit of salted butter… seriously, what are you waiting for? It’s sweet, comforting, and super nutritious. Plus, it can be cooked in countless ways: mashed, baked, homemade fries, etc.
Nutrition focus:
| Nutrient | Amount (per 100g) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 118 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 27 g |
| Fiber | 4.1 g |
| Vitamin C | 17 mg |
This table clearly shows you why yam is a must-have if you want to stay fit without depriving yourself.
The ichang papeda: the mysterious citrus
Here’s a fruit with a rather barbaric name, but don’t stop there. The ichang papeda is a rare citrus fruit primarily grown in Asia. Its taste is reminiscent of lemon, with a hint of bitterness. It is mostly used for zest and essential oils.
Why try it?
- Its fragrance is unique, perfect for enhancing fish dishes.
- It is ultra rich in vitamin C (great for avoiding winter colds).
- It can also flavor your desserts or infusions.
The essential imbe
The imbe is a small orange fruit native to Africa. It resembles a mini plum and grows in clusters on large trees. Its sweet and slightly tart flavor will transport you directly to the African sun.
Bonus: it’s an incredibly refreshing fruit in summer. Eat it fresh or add it to your fruit salads for a unique twist.
How to enjoy these fruits?
If you’re struggling to find these fruits in the supermarket, don’t panic. Here are some tips:
- Exotic markets: they are full of rare fruits that you won’t find anywhere else.
- Specialty shops: some organic or Asian stores regularly offer tropical fruits.
- Online shopping: some producers deliver directly to your home.
The impact on your health
Fruits starting with “i” are not just there to look pretty in your basket. They have incredible health benefits:
- Boost your energy thanks to their natural sugars.
- Strengthen your immune system (especially with the vitamin C from icaco and ichang papeda).
- Promote digestion with their natural fiber.
Quick recipe: icaco-yam tropical smoothie
- 5 ripe icacos
- 100g cooked yam
- 1 banana
- 200 ml coconut milk
- Some ice cubes
Blend everything together and enjoy! This smoothie is not only delicious but also super nourishing.
So, are you ready to explore these fruits that start with “i”? Talk to your friends about it, share this article, and surprise them with fruity discoveries they never imagined!
Pascal Petibon, born in 1980 in Lyon, is a renowned journalist and author, passionate about information and communication. After earning a degree in journalism from the University of Paris, he quickly joined various editorial teams, where he became known for his sharp analysis and clear writing style.
