Sea Almond

Terminalia catappa

The Sea Almond, scientifically known as Terminalia catappa, is a tropical tree that produces almond-like fruits. These fruits, encased in a green, fleshy exterior, mature to a yellow or brown color. The taste is mildly sweet with a hint of bitterness, reminiscent of marzipan. Sea Almonds are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a valuable addition to any diet. The tree itself is often found near coastal areas, thriving in sandy, saline environments. Its fruits are commonly used in traditional medicine and culinary practices across various tropical regions.

125

Calories

4.8g

Fiber

Vitamin C

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Nutrition Facts

Calories

125

per 100g

Carbs

23.3g

per 100g

Protein

3.1g

per 100g

Fiber

4.8g

per 100g

Sugar

11.1g

per 100g

Fat

3.1g

per 100g

💊Vitamins

Per 100g

Vitamin C

8% DV

4.9mg

Boosts immune system and aids in collagen production.

Vitamin A

3% DV

146IU

Supports vision health and immune function.

⚡Minerals

Per 100g

Potassium

10% DV

439mg

Helps maintain normal blood pressure and heart function.

Calcium

4% DV

38mg

Essential for bone health and muscle function.

🛡️Antioxidants

FlavonoidsPhenolic acidsTanninsLignansStilbenes

🌿Phytonutrients

QuercetinKaempferolMyricetinResveratrol

📊Glycemic Index

Per Serving

Nutrition breakdown for one serving

📏

Serving Size

100g

Calories

125kcal

Breakdown

Carbs

23.3g

Fiber

4.8g

19% DV

Sugar

11.1g

Protein

3.1g

Fat

3.1g

Vitamin C

💊

4.9mg

8% DV

Potassium

⚡

439mg

10% DV

Health Benefits

Rich in antioxidants, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation.

Contains vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and aids in collagen production.

Provides potassium, essential for maintaining normal blood pressure and heart function.

High in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.

Contains calcium, which is essential for bone health and muscle function.

Low glycemic index, making it a good option for blood sugar management.

Contains flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.

Rich in phenolic acids, which help protect the body from chronic diseases.

Contains tannins, which have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Contains lignans, which have antioxidant and anti-cancer properties.

Contains stilbenes, which have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.

May help improve skin health due to its high vitamin C content.

Origin & Distribution

Native Region

Southeast Asia

Global Presence

Indonesia

Malaysia

Thailand

Vietnam

Philippines

India

Sri Lanka

Australia

Top Producers

IndonesiaMalaysiaThailandVietnam

Historical Background

The Sea Almond tree has been cultivated for centuries in Southeast Asia, where it was valued not only for its edible fruits but also for its timber and medicinal properties. The tree was introduced to other tropical regions through trade and colonization, where it quickly adapted to coastal environments. Today, it is widely grown in tropical climates around the world.

Peak Season

Best Time to Enjoy

Year-round

2 Varieties Available

Explore Varieties

Each variety offers unique flavors, textures, and culinary applications

Common Sea Almond

Southeast Asia

Color

Yellow to brown

Taste Profile

Mildly sweet with a hint of bitterness

Best For

Fresh consumption, traditional medicine

Dwarf Sea Almond

Southeast Asia

Color

Light brown

Taste Profile

Sweeter than common variety

Best For

Fresh consumption, jams, and jellies

Storage & Selection Guide

Keep your fruit fresh and delicious for longer

How to Choose the Perfect Fruit

Select fruits that are firm and have a uniform color.

Avoid fruits with bruises or soft spots.

Choose fruits with a slightly glossy appearance, indicating freshness.

Smell the fruit; it should have a mild, sweet aroma.

Check for any signs of mold or decay.

Proper Storage Methods

Store at room temperature if the fruit is unripe.

Refrigerate ripe fruits to extend shelf life.

Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Use within a few days of purchase for best quality.

Store in a perforated plastic bag to maintain humidity.

Shelf Life Guide

Room Temperature

3-5 days

Refrigerated

Up to 2 weeks

Average Shelf Life

7 days

Freezing Instructions

Preserve freshness for months

2-3 months

Peel and slice the fruit before freezing.

Blanch the fruit for 1-2 minutes to preserve color and nutrients.

Store in airtight containers or freezer bags.

Use within 6 months for best quality.

Pro Tip

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.

Culinary Journey

Discover delicious possibilities

Common Uses

Eaten fresh as a snack.

Used in traditional desserts and jams.

Incorporated into salads for added crunch.

Blended into smoothies for a nutrient boost.

Used in savory dishes as a garnish.

Dried and ground into a powder for use in baking.

Infused into oils for cooking.

Used in marinades for meats.

Added to stir-fries for a unique flavor.

Used in traditional medicine preparations.

Perfect Pairings

Pairs well with tropical fruits like mango and pineapple for a refreshing salad.

Combines with coconut milk for a creamy dessert.

Goes well with spicy dishes to balance flavors.

Pairs with dark chocolate for a sweet treat.

Complements savory dishes with a hint of sweetness.

Works well with citrus fruits for a tangy twist.

Pairs with nuts for a crunchy texture contrast.

Goes well with yogurt for a nutritious snack.

Popular Recipes

Sea Almond Smoothie

Sea Almond and Coconut Milk Pudding

Sea Almond Salad with Tropical Fruits

Sea Almond and Dark Chocolate Bark

Sea Almond and Spicy Stir-Fry

Sea Almond and Citrus Salad

Sea Almond and Nut Clusters

Sea Almond and Yogurt Parfait

Refreshing Beverages

Sea Almond Smoothie

Sea Almond and Coconut Milk Shake

Sea Almond and Tropical Fruit Juice

Sea Almond and Green Tea Infusion

Sea Almond and Spiced Latte

Safety Information

Allergy Information:

Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Sea Almonds. Symptoms may include itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.

Pesticide Concerns:

Always wash Sea Almonds thoroughly before consumption to remove any pesticide residues.

Who Should Avoid:

• Individuals with nut allergies
• People with specific fruit allergies

Possible Side Effects:

•Potential allergic reactions
•Gastrointestinal discomfort in some individuals

Preparation Safety:

• Ensure the fruit is ripe and free from mold or decay before consumption.

Fun Facts

Surprising trivia you'll love!

Sea Almond trees can live up to 200 years.

The tree is often planted near coastal areas to prevent erosion.

Sea Almonds are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.

The wood of the Sea Almond tree is highly valued for its durability.

Sea Almonds are sometimes called "Indian Almonds" due to their origin.

The fruit is a favorite among birds and other wildlife.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main health benefits of Sea Almond?

Health

Sea Almond is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. It provides vitamin C for immune support, potassium for heart health, and calcium for bone strength. It also contains dietary fiber for digestion and various phytonutrients with anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.

How should I store Sea Almonds?

Storage

Store unripe Sea Almonds at room temperature and ripe ones in the refrigerator. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Use within a few days for best quality.

Can I freeze Sea Almonds?

Storage

Yes, you can freeze Sea Almonds. Peel and slice them, blanch for 1-2 minutes, and store in airtight containers or freezer bags. Use within 6 months for best quality.

What are some popular recipes using Sea Almonds?

Culinary

Popular recipes include Sea Almond Smoothie, Sea Almond and Coconut Milk Pudding, Sea Almond Salad with Tropical Fruits, and Sea Almond and Dark Chocolate Bark.

What flavors pair well with Sea Almonds?

Food Pairing

Sea Almonds pair well with tropical fruits like mango and pineapple, coconut milk, dark chocolate, and spicy dishes. They also complement citrus fruits and nuts.

Are there any side effects of consuming Sea Almonds?

Health

Sea Almonds are generally safe for consumption. However, some individuals may experience allergic reactions. It's always best to consult with a healthcare provider if you have any concerns.