The etiquette rules on how to serve and eat dragon fruit. Tips to be the ideal host or the perfect guest and avoid any embarrassment.
What dragon fruit etiquette is
Dragon fruit etiquette is the set of rules to properly serve and eat dragon fruit. Such rules help avoid behaviors that can disrespect your hosts or guests, or make you look unpolite.
If you are hosting, follow the etiquette to serve dragon fruit to your guests appropriately.
As a guest, respect the etiquette rules to properly eat dragon fruit at the dining table and avoid offending your hosts or embarrassing yourself.
What you should know about dragon fruit
Dragon fruit, also known as pitaya, is a tropical fruit that comes from several species of cactus native to Mexico, Central America, and South America.
Dragon fruit is a medium-sized fruit that is oblong or egg-shaped, and it can be up to 6 inches long and 4 inches wide. The exterior of the fruit is covered in scales, and the flesh inside can be either white or red, depending on the variety. The flesh is juicy and has a mild, slightly sweet taste, similar to a blend of kiwi and pear. The texture of the flesh is similar to that of a melon, with small black seeds scattered throughout.
Etiquette rules to serve and eat dragon fruit
1) How to store dragon fruit
The ideal temperature to store dragon fruit is between 45°F and 55°F (7-12°C). To store dragon fruit in the pantry, leave it on the counter. Consume it within 2 to 4 days. In the fridge, you can store it in a plastic bag or airtight container for up to 5 days. To freeze dragon fruit, first, slice it and then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 6 months.
Store sliced or cooked dragon fruit in an airtight container in the fridge. Consume it within 2-3 days.
2) How to clean dragon fruit
To clean dragon fruit, rinse it under cold water and then scrub the surface gently with a soft-bristled brush. There are no major risks associated with cleaning dragon fruit, and a soft-bristled brush or sponge is ideal for cleaning.
Dragon fruit that has gone bad will be soft to the touch, have brown or black spots on the skin, and have a sour smell.
3) How to prepare & cook dragon fruit
Dragon fruit can be eaten raw or cooked. To prepare it for cooking, slice the fruit in half lengthwise, and scoop out the flesh with a spoon. Dragon fruit can be cooked using a variety of utensils, including a skillet or wok, and is commonly used in stir-fries, curries, and salads. You can also use it to make smoothies, juice, jam, or preserves.
Dragon fruit It is suitable for vegan, keto, and paleo diets, and there are no known common allergies or food intolerances associated with dragon fruit.
4) How to serve & present dragon fruit
Dragon fruit is appropriate for all occasions, including formal and informal meals, breakfast, brunch, or snacks. It can be served as a fruit course or dessert.
To serve dragon fruit, slice it into thin pieces and present it on a plate or bowl. It is typically served chilled, and no specific serving tools are required.
Dragon fruit can be accompanied by a variety of seasonings and accompaniments, including lime, chili powder, honey, and yogurt.
5) Food and wine to pair dragon fruit with
Dragon fruit pairs well with a variety of fruits, including mango, pineapple, and citrus fruits. It can also be paired with vegetables like cucumber and bell peppers.
It does not typically pair well with cheese or dairy. However, it can be paired with both meat and fish. For meat, the best pairings are with mild-flavored meats such as chicken, pork, or turkey. For fish, the best pairings are with light and mild-flavored fish such as tilapia, cod, or halibut. It is important to avoid pairing dragon fruit with strong-flavored meats or fish, such as beef or salmon. It can also be paired with seafood, including shrimp and scallops,
Dragon fruit goes well with a variety of wines and beverages. A light-bodied red such as Pinot Noir or Beaujolais pairs well with dragon fruit. Crisp and acidic white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complement the fruit’s sweetness. Rosé wine and sparkling wine also pair well with it. As for other beverages, dragon fruit is great in cocktails and mocktails, and pairs well with coconut water and other tropical juices.
6) How to eat dragon fruit
Dragon fruit can be eaten with a fork or with your fingers. It is polite to peel the fruit before eating it, as the skin is not edible. You can eat the whole fruit, including the seeds, or you can cut it into slices or cubes before eating.
Dragon fruit etiquette: the worst mistakes
The Rude Index identifies and ranks negative behaviors.
A high score (8-10) means that the behavior has the potential to trigger a conflict with others. A medium score (4-7) means that the behavior risks making you look inelegant and unsophisticated. Read more about the Rude Index and its methodology here.
Avoid the most common dragon fruit etiquette mistakes:
- 6/10. Not peeling dragon fruit properly, leaving the skin on.
Additional information for properly serving dragon fruit
How many calories per serving?
Counting calories is important to stay healthy and correctly plan a menu.
Dragon fruit is low in calories, with around 60 calories per serving (one medium-sized fruit). In 100 grams of dragon fruit, there are approximately 60-65 calories.
How to buy the best dragon fruit
A crucial factor in dragon fruit etiquette is serving your guests the best product possible.
Season and availability
Dragon fruit is available all year round, but the best season to buy it is from June to October.
Choose the best
Generally, you can find dragon fruit in commerce fresh, although it can also be found canned, frozen, and dried.
The most popular varieties of dragon fruit in commerce are the white-fleshed and red-fleshed varieties. The most prized varieties are the red-fleshed ones, which are sweeter and more flavorful.
When buying dragon fruit, look for fruits that are firm, plump, and free from soft spots or blemishes. The skin should be bright and even in color. To test for ripeness, gently press the fruit with your fingers; it should yield slightly but not be too soft.
Alternatives to dragon fruit
Some common alternatives to dragon fruit include kiwi, star fruit, passion fruit, and pomegranate.
Resources
- Dragon fruit benefits backed by science: medicalnewstoday.com