Tamarillo

Solanum betaceum

The Tamarillo, scientifically known as Solanum betaceum, is a vibrant, egg-shaped fruit that captivates with its bright red to yellow skin and tangy, tropical flavor. Originating from the Andean regions of South America, this fruit has been a staple in local diets for centuries. The Tamarillo's flesh is juicy and aromatic, with a taste that beautifully balances sweet and tart notes. It's often described as a cross between a tomato and a passion fruit, making it a unique addition to any fruit bowl. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, the Tamarillo is not only a delight to the palate but also a nutritional powerhouse.

Calories

2.3g

Fiber

33.5%

Vitamin C

Photo Gallery

Explore Tamarillo in stunning detail

Tamarillo - Main View

Nutrition Facts

Calories

per 100g

Carbs

11.7g

per 100g

Protein

1.1g

per 100g

Fiber

2.3g

per 100g

Sugar

6.7g

per 100g

Fat

0.5g

per 100g

💊Vitamins

Per 100g

Vitamin C

33.5% DV

20.1mg

Boosts immune function and acts as an antioxidant.

⚡Minerals

Per 100g

Potassium

8.5% DV

296mg

Supports heart health and muscle function.

🛡️Antioxidants

Vitamin CBeta-caroteneLycopeneLuteinZeaxanthin

🌿Phytonutrients

AnthocyaninsFlavonoidsPhenolic acidsCarotenoids

📊Glycemic Index

Per Serving

Nutrition breakdown for one serving

📏

Serving Size

1 cup, chopped (123g)

Calories

59kcal

Breakdown

Carbs

14.4g

Fiber

2.8g

11.2% DV

Sugar

8.2g

Protein

1.4g

Fat

0.6g

Vitamin C

💊

24.7mg

41.2% DV

Potassium

⚡

364mg

10.4% DV

Health Benefits

High in Vitamin C, providing 33.5% of the daily value per 100g, which supports immune function and acts as an antioxidant.

Contains potassium, offering 8.5% of the daily value per 100g, which supports heart health and muscle function.

Rich in dietary fiber, with 2.3g per 100g, aiding in digestive health and promoting a feeling of fullness.

Low glycemic index of 45 and glycemic load of 5, making it a suitable option for blood sugar management.

Contains beta-carotene, lycopene, lutein, and zeaxanthin, which are beneficial for eye health and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Provides anthocyanins, flavonoids, phenolic acids, and carotenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Supports skin health due to its Vitamin C content, which is essential for collagen production.

May aid in weight management due to its low calorie content and high fiber content.

Contains small amounts of calcium and iron, contributing to bone health and oxygen transport in the blood.

May help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases due to its potassium and antioxidant content.

Supports cognitive function due to its Vitamin C and antioxidant content.

May have anti-cancer properties due to its phytonutrient content.

Origin & Distribution

Native Region

Andean regions of South America

Global Presence

Colombia

Ecuador

Peru

Bolivia

Chile

New Zealand

Australia

Kenya

Top Producers

ColombiaNew ZealandEcuadorAustralia

Historical Background

The Tamarillo, or Solanum betaceum, has been cultivated in the Andean regions for over 2,000 years. It was introduced to other parts of the world by Spanish conquistadors and has since become a popular fruit in New Zealand, where it is known as the 'tree tomato'. The fruit's unique flavor and nutritional benefits have made it a sought-after ingredient in various cuisines.

Peak Season

Best Time to Enjoy

Year-round with peak seasons varying by region

2 Varieties Available

Explore Varieties

Each variety offers unique flavors, textures, and culinary applications

Red Tamarillo

Andean regions

Color

Red to reddish-yellow

Taste Profile

Sweet-tart

Best For

Fresh eating, salads, smoothies

Yellow Tamarillo

Andean regions

Color

Yellow to golden

Taste Profile

Mildly sweet

Best For

Cooking, baking, sauces

Storage & Selection Guide

Keep your fruit fresh and delicious for longer

How to Choose the Perfect Fruit

Select Tamarillos that are firm yet slightly yielding to pressure.

Avoid fruits with bruises, soft spots, or mold.

Choose Tamarillos with vibrant, even coloration.

Smell the fruit; a sweet, tangy aroma indicates ripeness.

Opt for heavier Tamarillos, which usually indicate juiciness.

Proper Storage Methods

Store Tamarillos at room temperature until they ripen.

Once ripe, refrigerate to extend shelf life.

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

Avoid storing with ethylene-producing fruits like apples and bananas to prevent premature ripening.

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 chop Tamarillos before freezing.

Store in airtight containers or freezer bags.

Use frozen Tamarillos 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

Add to fruit salads for a tangy twist.

Blend into smoothies for a refreshing drink.

Use in salsas and chutneys for a unique flavor.

Incorporate into jams and jellies.

Make Tamarillo sauce for meats and vegetables.

Use as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal.

Incorporate into baked goods like cakes and muffins.

Add to savory dishes for a sweet-tart contrast.

Use in marinades for grilled meats.

Create Tamarillo sorbet or ice cream.

Perfect Pairings

Pair with avocado for a creamy, tangy combination.

Combine with lime for a refreshing, zesty flavor.

Use with cilantro to balance the tangy taste.

Pair with honey for a sweet-tart contrast.

Combine with ginger for a spicy, tangy flavor.

Use with coconut milk for a tropical twist.

Pair with quinoa for a nutritious, flavorful dish.

Combine with feta cheese for a savory, tangy contrast.

Popular Recipes

Tamarillo Salsa

Tamarillo Smoothie

Tamarillo Jam

Grilled Chicken with Tamarillo Sauce

Tamarillo and Avocado Salad

Tamarillo Sorbet

Tamarillo and Honey Glazed Chicken

Tamarillo and Coconut Milk Curry

Refreshing Beverages

Tamarillo Juice

Tamarillo Smoothie

Tamarillo and Lime Refresher

Tamarillo and Ginger Tea

Tamarillo and Coconut Milk Smoothie

Safety Information

Allergy Information:

Tamarillo is generally safe for consumption, but individuals with nightshade allergies should exercise caution.

Pesticide Concerns:

Choose organic Tamarillo when possible to avoid pesticide exposure.

Who Should Avoid:

• Individuals with nightshade allergies

Possible Side Effects:

•Excessive consumption may cause gastrointestinal discomfort due to its high fiber content.

Preparation Safety:

• Wash Tamarillo thoroughly before consumption to remove any potential pesticide residues or dirt.

Fun Facts

Surprising trivia you'll love!

Tamarillo is also known as the 'tree tomato' despite not being related to the tomato.

The Tamarillo plant can grow up to 3 meters tall and produces fruit year-round.

Tamarillo was introduced to New Zealand by missionaries in the early 20th century and has become a popular fruit there.

The Tamarillo's vibrant color is due to its high content of beta-carotene and other carotenoids.

Tamarillo is often used in traditional Andean medicine for its purported health benefits.

The Tamarillo's unique flavor profile makes it a favorite among chefs for creating innovative dishes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Tamarillo taste like?

General

Tamarillo has a unique taste that is a blend of sweet and tart, often compared to a mix between a tomato and a passion fruit. The red variety tends to be sweeter, while the yellow variety is milder and more tart.

How do you eat Tamarillo?

Preparation

Tamarillo can be eaten raw, peeled, and sliced. It is commonly used in salads, smoothies, salsas, and sauces. It can also be baked into goods like cakes and muffins or used in savory dishes.

Is Tamarillo good for you?

Health

Yes, Tamarillo is highly nutritious. It is rich in Vitamin C, providing 33.5% of the daily value per 100g, and contains potassium, dietary fiber, and various antioxidants and phytonutrients that offer numerous health benefits.

How do you ripen Tamarillo?

Preparation

To ripen Tamarillo, store it at room temperature away from direct sunlight. Once ripe, it can be refrigerated to extend its shelf life.

Can you freeze Tamarillo?

Storage

Yes, Tamarillo can be frozen. Peel and chop the fruit before freezing, and store it in airtight containers or freezer bags. Use within 6 months for best quality.

What are the different varieties of Tamarillo?

General

The main varieties of Tamarillo are the Red Tamarillo, which is sweet-tart with red to reddish-yellow skin, and the Yellow Tamarillo, which is mildly sweet with yellow to golden skin. Both varieties are native to the Andean regions.