Is Dragon Fruit the Berry of a Cactus?
As a tropical fruit that has become popular worldwide in recent years, dragon fruit is favored for its unique shape and rich nutritional value. However, consumers still have many questions about its botanical classification and preservation methods. This article will give you a comprehensive understanding of this exotic fruit, from plant classification, scientific preservation to creative eating methods.
The Botanical Identity of Dragon Fruit Revealed
A Special Member of the Cactus Family
Dragon fruit (Hylocereus undatus), although belonging to the same cactus family as cacti, is not the fruit of the traditional desert cactus. This climbing succulent plant is native to the tropical rainforests of Central America, growing on trees by aerial roots. Its triangular stems are covered with stomata, retaining the drought-resistant characteristics of the cactus family while adapting to humid environments.
Four Major Differences from Cactus Fruit
1. Appearance Difference: Dragon fruit weighs 300-800 grams per fruit, with scaly protuberances on the skin; cactus fruit weighs only 50-150 grams, with the epidermis densely covered with fine spines. 2. Flesh Type: Dragon fruit comes in white or red heart types, with tiny seeds; cactus fruit is dark red with larger seeds. 3. Growth Cycle: Dragon fruit blooms and bears fruit throughout the year, while cactus fruit ripens mainly in summer. 4. Nutritional Content: Dragon fruit is rich in anthocyanins and dietary fiber, while cactus fruit has a higher vitamin C content.
Scientific Preservation Guide for Dragon Fruit
Two Ways for Short-term Storage
• Refrigerated Storage: Place the whole fruit in a保鲜 bag and store it in the refrigerator's fruit and vegetable compartment (4-6℃), which can last for 2 weeks. Note: Cut flesh needs to be sealed and refrigerated and consumed within 24 hours. • Cool and Dark Storage: Choose a well-ventilated and light-proof place (15-20℃), place absorbent paper to prevent moisture, and the shelf life is about 5 days.
Three Techniques to Extend Shelf Life
1. Pre-treatment: Wipe the surface with white vinegar to sterilize, let it dry naturally, then store. 2. Separate and Freeze: Cut the flesh into pieces, pack it in a sealed bag and freeze, which can last for 3 months. 3. Make Dried Fruit: Dry at a low temperature of 60℃ for 12 hours to make portable snacks.
Complete Analysis of Creative Eating Methods
Basic Eating Method
• Classic Cut: Cut into four petals, peel and eat, or cut horizontally to extract the flesh balls. • Iced Special Drink: Flesh + mint leaves + sparkling water, a summer refreshment.
Advanced Cooking Method
• Dragon Fruit and Shrimp Salad: Dice the flesh and pair it with fresh shrimp, cashews, and rocket. • Red Heart Jam: Boil 200g of flesh with 50g of brown sugar, perfect for spreading on bread. • Using the Peel: Wash and shred, add to salads, rich in betacyanin.
Through scientific understanding and reasonable preservation, we can better enjoy the health benefits brought by dragon fruit. It is recommended to choose fresh fruits with bright skin and expanded scales when purchasing, and to combine them with diverse eating methods to add more color and nutrition to the daily diet with this precious cactus fruit.