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Solanum quitoense
Naranjilla is a South American tropical fruit with tart orange flavor and distinctive juicy pulp. Excellent source of vitamin C (44% DV) supporting immune function and antioxidant defense. Rich in citric acid providing powerful antibacterial properties and natural acidity. Low in calories (43 per 100g) ideal for weight management. Good source of fiber (4.2g) supporting digestive health and gut wellness. Contains anthocyanins and polyphenols with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. Round orange fruit with fuzzy appearance maintaining juiciness when ripe. Native to Andean cloud forests, naranjilla gaining international recognition as superfruit supporting immunity and digestive wellness.
Sustainability insights
Naranjilla cultivation represents Andean agricultural practice with environmental considerations. Benefits include cloud forest cultivation supporting regional biodiversity, traditional farming methods, indigenous knowledge systems, and ecosystem integration. Challenges include deforestation for expansion, pesticide use in conventional cultivation, long-distance transportation carbon footprint, and habitat loss. Sustainable practices include organic farming, cloud forest preservation, supporting indigenous producers, and regional consumption.
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Naranjilla - Main View
Per 100g
Per 100g
Nutrition breakdown for one serving
South America, Andean Cloud Forests
Naranjilla native to Andean cloud forests with centuries of cultivation by indigenous peoples. Ancient Inca and pre-Incan civilizations utilizing fruit. Spanish colonial expansion discovering and naming fruit. Traditional South American cuisine foundation. Modern cultivation expanding in Ecuador and Colombia. New Zealand production increasing. International specialty market growing. Culinary recognition expanding globally. Health benefit research validating traditional use.
Peak season May-September in Southern Hemisphere
Each variety offers unique flavors, textures, and culinary applications
Keep your fruit fresh and delicious for longer
Select firm naranjilla without soft spots or bruises
Choose bright orange-red color indicating ripeness
Look for fuzzy skin texture in good condition
Press gently - should yield slightly to pressure
Avoid overly soft or wrinkled specimens
Check for fragrant aroma indicating sweetness
Purchase from specialty markets or South American grocers
Select uniform size for consistent ripeness
Store at room temperature up to 3 days when ripe
Refrigerate for extended storage up to 1 week
Keep in produce drawer away from ethylene-producing fruits
Do not wash before storing to preserve shelf life
Preserve freshness for months
Naranjilla can be frozen whole for up to 3 months
Discover delicious possibilities
Naranjilla allergies extremely rare with minimal documented cases. Solanum family allergies uncommon. Allergic reactions very uncommon. Generally safe for most individuals. Those with nightshade sensitivities should consult allergist. Minor cross-reactivity possible with potato and tomato.
Naranjilla cultivated with varying pesticide practices in Andean regions. Organic naranjilla available from certified producers. Conventional fruit acceptable with water rinsing. Ecuadorian and Colombian suppliers often emphasizing sustainable and traditional cultivation practices.
Surprising trivia you'll love!
Naranjilla native to Andean cloud forests with pre-Incan and Inca civilization use spanning centuries in traditional medicine
Excellent vitamin C (44% DV) among top tropical fruits supporting superior immune function and antioxidant defense
Exceptional fiber (4.2g) highest among common tropical fruits supporting digestive health and gut wellness
Unique anthocyanins and polyphenols provide anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective benefits comparable to berries
Distinctive fuzzy orange-red appearance making naranjilla visually distinctive among tropical fruits
Natural juiciness with abundant pulp providing excellent juice yield and culinary applications
Very low glycemic index (30) and load (2) ideal for blood sugar management and diabetic-friendly diets
Copper content (13% DV) among highest of tropical fruits supporting collagen synthesis and immune function
Solanum genus member with minimal alkaloids making it safe and distinct from nightshade concerns
Modern scientific research validating centuries of Andean indigenous wellness knowledge about health benefits
Naranjilla distinctive Andean tropical fruit with unique characteristics differentiating from common tropical fruits. EXCELLENT VITAMIN C: 44% DV supporting excellent immune function. Antioxidant defense robust. Cellular protection strong. Compared to passion fruit: Higher fiber content. Similar vitamin C. Different flavor profile. Naranjilla more tart. Both nutrient-dense. ANTHOCYANIN CONTENT: Powerful antioxidant pigments. Anti-inflammatory benefits. Neuroprotective properties. Comparable to berries. Purple-orange pigmentation. Health benefits significant. COMPARED TO TAMARIND: Tamarind more sour acidic. Naranjilla more fruity tart. Different culinary uses. Tamarind superior for sauces. Naranjilla superior for juice. Both South American heritage. ACIDIC PROFILE: Tart acidic flavor distinctive. Citric acid concentration moderate. Intense fruit flavor. Culinary versatility. Juice quality excellent. FIBER CONTENT: Exceptional fiber (4.2g) supporting. Digestive health robust. Gut wellness. Superior to passion fruit. Regular bowel function. Satiety support. POLYPHENOL CONTENT: Diverse antioxidant compounds. Cardiovascular support. Anti-cancer properties. Disease prevention. Cellular protection. Wellness support. FLAVOR PROFILE: Tart orange fruity flavor. Complex fruit notes. Sweet-tart balance. Unique taste experience. Culinary applications diverse. JUICE EXTRACTION: Excellent juice yield. Natural juiciness. Pulp abundance. Efficient extraction. Commercial juice. Culinary applications. TRADITIONAL USE: Andean indigenous use centuries. Wellness traditions. Cultural significance. Traditional preparation. Health practices. BOTTOM LINE: Naranjilla unique Andean tropical fruit with excellent vitamin C (44% DV), exceptional fiber (4.2g), unique anthocyanins with anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective benefits, diverse polyphenols with cardiovascular properties, tart orange fruity flavor profile, superior juice quality, exceptional low glycemic profile, centuries of Andean indigenous wellness traditions, and distinctive nutritional profile compared to passion fruit and tamarind.
Naranjilla versatile Andean tropical ingredient with traditional applications emphasizing tart juice enhancement. FRESH JUICE: Direct consumption traditional. Beverage preparation. Daily vitamin C. Immune support. Refreshing quality. Andean tradition. DESSERT TOPPING: Ice cream traditional. Yogurt pairing. Pastry topping. Dessert sauce. Flavor enhancement. Culinary application. JAM PREPARATION: Fruit preserve traditional. Sugar preservation. Extended storage. Breakfast spread. Culinary foundation. Shelf-stable product. SAUCE BASE: Meat sauce traditional. Fish preparation. Vegetable sauce. Reduction preparation. Culinary application. Flavor complexity. SMOOTHIE INGREDIENT: Tropical smoothies. Yogurt base. Fruit combinations. Nutritious beverages. Health-focused. Popular modern use. COCKTAIL MIXING: Tropical cocktails. Spirit pairing. Juice base. Garnish application. Mixology ingredient. PULP APPLICATION: Direct eating. Smoothie base. Cooking ingredient. Fiber content. Nutritional density. BASIC JUICE PREPARATION: Fresh naranjilla 6-8 fruits, halve and scoop pulp, strain through fine mesh, sweeten if desired. BASIC JAM RECIPE: Naranjilla pulp 4 cups, sugar 3 cups, lemon juice 2 tablespoons, combine in pot, simmer 30-40 minutes until thickened. NARANJILLA SAUCE: Pulp 2 cups, honey 1/2 cup, cinnamon 1 teaspoon, vanilla extract 1 teaspoon, simmer until thick. DESSERT TOPPING: Fresh juice 1 cup, reduced with sugar 2 tablespoons, serve over ice cream or yogurt. TROPICAL SMOOTHIE: Naranjilla pulp 1 cup, yogurt 1 cup, banana 1, honey 1 tablespoon, blend until smooth. STORAGE: Fresh juice lasting 3-5 days. Jam lasting 3-4 weeks. Sauces lasting 1-2 weeks. BOTTOM LINE: Naranjilla quintessential Andean tropical ingredient with traditional fresh juice consumption, dessert sauce preparation, jam making, smoothie base, cocktail mixing, ice cream topping, and diverse recipes highlighting distinctive tart orange fruity flavor and exceptional antioxidant content central to South American cuisine.
Naranjilla safe for consumption with minimal documented safety concerns. Generally well-tolerated by most populations. ALLERGY INFO: Naranjilla allergies extremely rare. Solanum fruit allergies uncommon. Allergic reactions very uncommon. Generally safe for most individuals. Those with nightshade sensitivities should consult allergist. Minor cross-reactivity possible with potato and tomato. ACIDIC CONCERNS: Moderate citric acid content potentially irritating sensitive mouths. Enamel erosion possible with excessive consumption. Rinse mouth after consumption. Sensitive individuals using straws. DIGESTIVE CONSIDERATIONS: High fiber potentially causing digestive adjustments initially. Introduce gradually. Adequate hydration important. Digestive adaptation natural. Some individuals experiencing sensitivity. PREGNANCY CONSIDERATIONS: Naranjilla safe during pregnancy. Vitamin C important. Folate present. Fiber content beneficial. Moderation recommended. Consult healthcare provider. CHILDREN CONSIDERATIONS: Naranjilla safe for children. Tart flavor possibly challenging for young palates. Mix with sweeter fruits. Dilute juice if necessary. Nutritious food option. NIGHTSHADE CONCERNS: Naranjilla member of Solanum (nightshade) family. Alkaloid content minimal. Generally safe for most individuals. Those with nightshade sensitivity consult allergist. Inflammatory concerns minimal with normal consumption. ORAL HEALTH: Moderate acidity potentially affecting tooth enamel with excessive consumption. Rinse mouth after consuming. Limit acidic exposure. Protect tooth enamel. Moderation important. MEDICATION INTERACTIONS: Naranjilla unlikely to interact with medications. High vitamin C note for specific medications. Consult healthcare provider if concerns. Nightshade sensitivity consideration. SIDE EFFECTS: Minimal side effects documented. Some experiencing mouth irritation from acidity. Rare allergic reactions if sensitive. Most individuals tolerating well. STORAGE SAFETY: Refrigerate for extended storage. Use before deterioration. Proper handling important. Fresh consumption optimal. Freezing maintains safety. PESTICIDE CONCERNS: Naranjilla cultivated with varying practices in Andean regions. Organic naranjilla available. Conventional fruit acceptable. Wash before consuming. South American suppliers often sustainable. BOTTOM LINE: Naranjilla safe for consumption with minimal documented safety concerns, extremely rare allergies, nightshade family membership with minimal alkaloids, moderate citric acid potentially irritating sensitive mouths, high fiber requiring gradual introduction, no contraindicated medications except special cases, proper rinsing after consumption recommended, and consultation with healthcare provider appropriate for specific individual concerns.
Naranjilla profound cultural significance in Andean culinary tradition and emerging international recognition. INDIGENOUS ORIGINS: Native to Andean cloud forests. Pre-Incan civilization use. Inca empire significance. Indigenous knowledge systems. Traditional wellness practices. REGIONAL IDENTITY: Ecuadorian and Colombian signature fruit. Andean agricultural heritage. Regional economic importance. Cultural symbol. Local pride. CULINARY TRADITION: Traditional juice preparation centuries. Andean cuisine foundation. Regional flavor identity. Cultural continuity. Wellness traditions. SPANISH COLONIAL: Spanish naming and documentation. Colonial expansion spreading. Americas introduction awareness. Culinary adaptation. International documentation. TRADITIONAL MEDICINE: Indigenous healing traditions. Wellness support practices. Immune function emphasis. Traditional remedies. Health knowledge systems. MODERN EXPANSION: International market growth increasing. Specialty market recognition. Export development expanding. Global availability increasing. International interest growing. ECUADORIAN PRESTIGE: Ecuador primary producer. Agricultural significance. Economic importance. Export markets. Premium positioning. COLOMBIAN HERITAGE: Colombian cultivation traditions. Regional identity. Cultural significance. Agricultural heritage. Traditional practices. SUPERFRUIT RECOGNITION: Modern health awareness. Antioxidant emphasis. Superfruit positioning. Scientific validation. Contemporary interest. MICHELIN DINING: High-end restaurants featuring naranjilla. Culinary innovation. Artistic presentations. International chef adoption. Prestige elevation. DIASPORA SIGNIFICANCE: Andean communities maintaining traditions. Cultural heritage preservation. Identity connection. Intergenerational transmission. EXPORT MARKET: International availability increasing. Specialty market growth. Premium pricing justifying. Quality emphasis. Global recognition emerging. SUSTAINABILITY FOCUS: Andean cloud forest preservation. Biodiversity support. Traditional cultivation methods. Environmental stewardship. Conservation importance. BOTTOM LINE: Naranjilla profound cultural significance as centuries-old Andean tropical fruit native to cloud forests, indigenous Inca and pre-Incan civilization use, traditional juice preparation and wellness practice foundation, Spanish colonial documentation and naming, regional Ecuadorian and Colombian identity and agricultural heritage, modern superfruit recognition and antioxidant emphasis, expanding international export markets and specialty market growth, high-end culinary integration, Andean diaspora heritage preservation, and emerging global recognition as premium authentic South American ingredient.
Naranjilla carbon footprint varies by cultivation region and transportation method. Primary cultivation in Ecuador and Colombia highlands. Long-distance international shipping increasing carbon impact significantly. Organic cultivation reducing overall environmental footprint. Supporting South American local production reducing transportation. Seasonal purchasing when available.
Naranjilla cultivation adapted to Andean cloud forest rainfall patterns. Cloud forest regions supporting abundant natural precipitation. Tree cultivation requiring consistent moisture. Sustainable water management integrated. Rainfed cultivation supporting natural growth. Minimal irrigation supplementation needed.
Supporting Ecuadorian and Colombian naranjilla producers maximizes environmental benefit. Direct South American sourcing. Sustainable farming practices preferred. Cloud forest preservation supporting. Traditional cultivation supporting. Local processing reducing carbon footprint. Supporting Andean agricultural heritage. BEST PRACTICES: Choose South American-sourced naranjilla, support sustainable producers, source from fair-trade suppliers, purchase seasonally when available, minimize processing and packaging.
Can be frozen whole up to 3 months
Juice can be frozen in ice cube trays for convenient use
Puree can be frozen separately for cooking applications
Room temperature storage intensifying flavor aroma
Thaw before juicing for optimal juice extraction
Frozen fruit excellent for cooked applications and purees
Juice freezes well in ice cube trays
Puree freezes separately for convenient cooking use
Frozen fruit maintains vitamin C content
Label frozen items with the date to track freshness. Most fruits maintain quality for 2-3 months when properly frozen. For best results, use airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.