Best Fruits to Try in Costa Rica: A Guide By A local tica
Updated: 9 hours ago
Nothing beats a delicious Costa Rican breakfast and a big plate of refreshing fruits. If you're planning a trip to Costa Rica, then get ready to be amazed by the incredible variety of tropical fruits that this country has to offer. As your local guide, I'm excited to share with you some of my TOP favorite fruits that you simply cannot miss while you're here!
Malay Apple
First up, we have the Malay apple, or
as we say in Costa Rica, la manzana de agua. The first time I had this I was like OMG I'm already obsessed with apples but this is another level. This fruit is truly unique, with its bright red or yellow skin and its crisp, juicy flesh. It's the perfect snack for a hot day, as it's very hydrating and refreshing. You can find it in most local markets, and its fantastic when you add it to a refreshing morning smoothie!
Limon Dulce
Next on our list is the Limon Dulce, or
Sweet Lime. This fruit is high up on my list of favorites, as it has a sweet and tangy flavor that's incredibly refreshing. They're also huge so they are perfect to slice up and pack on a day out exploring! You can make refreshing drinks, like lemonade or agua fresca, but it's also great in salads or as a seasoning for fish or chicken. Plus, it's a great source of vitamin C and antioxidants, so it's good for you too!
Starfruit
If you're looking for a fruit that's both delicious and Instagram-worthy, then you
must try the Carambola or Starfruit. This fruit is literally shaped like a star, with its bright yellow skin and juicy, slightly sour flesh. It's a great source of vitamin C and fiber, and it's perfect for snacking or for adding to fruit platters. And let's face it, it's just really cool-looking!
Cas
Now, let's talk about Cas. This fruit may not be as well-known as some of the others on our list, but trust me, it's a real hidden gem. It looks like a small potato, but once you bite into it, you'll be pleasantly surprised by its sweet, slightly tart flavor and creamy texture. It's perfect for desserts or smoothies, and it's also a great source of fiber and potassium. I always order the juice when I eat out or buy the mix at Mas X Menos.
And now, for my personal favorites
Rambutan
Mamon Chino, or Rambutan, is
simply delicious. It has a sweet, juicy flesh covered in a spiky, red shell. It's commonly eaten raw and is perfect as a topping for desserts. Remember to peel the shell first and don't the center! It's super bitter! I love putting these in the fridge and snacking on them throughout the day. I have to warn you - IT'S ADDICTING! I can't tell you the number of times I boarded the plane back to NYC with a plastic bag filled with them to eat during the flight!
Soursop
Lastly Guanabana, also known as soursop, is a tropical fruit with soft, creamy flesh and a flavor that's both sweet and tangy. It's commonly used to make ice cream or smoothies, and it's a great source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. My favorite way to enjoy it at restaurants is to order it as a smoothie, or "En Leche" paired with the traditional casado!
I can definitely say Costa Rica is a fruit lover's paradise, with an incredible variety of tropical fruits that are both delicious and nutritious. It's one of the things I miss the most when I'm back in NYC. From the Malay apple to the Carambola, and from Guanabana to Mamon Chino, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So, when you come to Costa Rica, don't be afraid to explore the local markets and try something new. Who knows, you might just discover your new favorite fruit!
