Jamaicans love to eat Otaheite Apples freshly picked from the tree as they have a super refreshing, mildly sweet flavor that is thirst-quenching and bursting with the good stuff! If you are visiting Jamaica in the summer months grab a bag of Jamaican Apples and savor the flavor of these unique fruits.
Otaheite apples are available in Jamaica in August and September where their presence is hotly anticipated by the locals, after the showy pinks blossoms in May and June that build the anticipation. Although most people eat them raw they are also used to make refreshing drinks, with ginger and lime, or baked into pastries, jams, chutneys, and even wine!
Although Otaheite isn’t native to Jamaica they have spread abundantly across the island since they were introduced way back in 1879.
Jamaican Otaheite Apple Juice Recipe
This recipe is super easy and can be made using a blender or juicer:
Ingredients:
- 10 x Jamaican Otaheite Apples
- 1 x 2-inch piece of Ginger
- 1 x Fresh Lime
- 2 Cups of Spring Water
- Cane Sugar to Taste
Method:
- Add ingredients to a blender and blend on high speed for a few minutes.
- Strain and chill before serving.
- If using a juicer there is no need to strain off the pulp as it will be removed automatically.
Jamaican Otaheite Apple Jam Recipe
If you have an abundance of Jamaican Otaheite apples and aren’t sure what to do with them, why not try making this delicious jam so that you can make the most out of your crop and get to enjoy them well after the fruiting season.
Jamaican Otaheite Apple Pie Recipe
If you want to try Jamaican Otaheite Apples in a dessert, why not try this delicious pie recipe that is brought to the next level with the warming spices of nutmeg and cinnamon.
This Jamaican apple pie is simply delicious served on its own or why not try some ice cream or cream poured over it?
FAQs About Jamaican Otaheite Apples
Everything you ever wanted to know about juicy and delicious Jamaican Otaheite Apples:
What is Otaheite Apple?
Otaheite apples, or Jamaican Apples, grow all over Jamaica since being introduced from Tahiti, although the origin of these apples is Malaysia.
What Do Jamaican Otaheite Apples Taste Like?
Jamaican apples have a mildly sweet flavor with high water content so they are very refreshing to eat especially when it is hot. The flesh is usually slightly spongy, and soft, with a thin skin that can be eaten.
Many Jamaicans believe the darker Otaheite apples have sweeter flesh, whilst the lighter rose-colored fruits have firmer flesh but are not as sweet.
What is the Jamaican Apple called?
In Jamaica, Jamaican apples are commonly known as apples or Otaheite apples. The Latin name is Syzygium Malaccense and they are known internationally as Malay Apples, Rose Apples, or Mountain Apples and are native to Malaysia.
Who Brought Otaheite Apples to Jamaica?
In 1793 Captain Bligh introduced Otaheite apples to Jamaica from Tahiti, although their original origin is believed to be Malaysia where they are known as Malay Apples. They are now widely spread across the island.
What Are The Health Benefits Of Jamaican Otaheite Apples?
The Otaheite apple contains many antioxidants that help to ward off free radicals and are believed to prohibit the effects of several forms of cancer.
Otaheite apples also contain iron, vitamin A and C, and a high level of fiber which is good for the digestive system of the body.
As Otaheite apples have a low sugar content they are a good choice for persons managing diabetes and can work as a substitute for sugar.
