(Updated 2024)

THE TERM "MARACUYA" IS THE SPANISH WORD FOR "PASSION FRUIT"

TASTE DESCRIPTION

Maracuya typically alludes to the big yellow variety grown in South America. It boasts a distinctive appearance with their large, round to oblong shape and bright yellow rinds. Measuring approximately 8 centimeters in length and 4 centimeters in width, this fruits has a smooth exterior with light yellow speckles. As they mature, the skin becomes wrinkled and soft to the touch. Cutting open a maracuya reveals a soft white pith surrounding a large hollow cavity filled with edible brown seeds enveloped in sweet, yellow gelatinous pulp. The pulp boasts an enticing sweet and floral aroma, with a tangy, tropical taste that is sure to tantalize the taste buds.

AVAILAIBILITY

Maracuya is available mostly in the winter and summer seasons of the US. You can find puree versions very easy to handle on line as well, such is the case of Costa Rica Jungle Pulp purees  www.junglepulp.com.

FACTS

This yellow passionfruit is scientifically classified as Passiflora Edulis and is the most popularly grown species in the tropical rainforests of South America. They are popular for their sour, tropical taste and their eye-catching purple flowers that bloom before the fruit matures.

NUTRITIONAL VALUE

Passion fruit is a good source of several essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Here is an overview of some of the key nutritional benefits of passion fruit:

• Vitamins: Passion fruit is a good source of vitamins A, C, and B vitamins, including folate and niacin.

• Minerals: Passion fruit contains important minerals such as potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, and iron.

• Antioxidants: Passion fruit is rich in antioxidants, including carotenoids and flavonoids, which help to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.

• Fiber: Passion fruit is a good source of fiber, which is important for digestive health and maintaining a healthy weight.

• Low in calories: Passion fruit is low in calories, with an average of about 100 calories per fruit.

It's important to note that passion fruit is also high in sugar, so it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Additionally, the nutrient content of passion fruit can vary depending on the variety and growing conditions, so it's always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional for specific dietary recommendations

APPLICATIONS

Maracuya fruit can be utilized in both its raw and cooked forms. People often consume the fresh pulp and seeds as a snack or sprinkle them on salads, yogurts, and parfaits. The juice is extracted from the pulp and seeds through straining, and then sweetened for use in smoothies, juices, and desserts like sherbet, ice cream, and sorbet. This juice can also be used to make jams, jellies, sauces, and added to dressings. Its vibrant color and tropical flavor make it a popular topping for desserts like cheesecake, vanilla ice cream, and panna cotta. Maracuya can be stored for a maximum of 5 days at room temperature and up to two weeks in the refrigerator.  It is also available in pasteurized form or puree like packed in a way that can be easily stored. It is commonly used this way for easily applying it to desserts or cocktails. 

 Passion Fruit Tarts

ETHNIC/CULTURAL INFORMATION

Maracuya, also known as Yellow Passion Fruit, was originally classified under the botanical name Passiflora edulis forma 'flavicarpa', which means "gold or yellow" in Latin. At the time of its classification, it was believed that there was only one type of yellow passion fruit. However, the classification Passiflora laurifolia is also used for yellow fruits today. Scientists have recently proposed a change in the nomenclature, due to the significant variations among plants with yellow fruits and a lack of adequate cytological studies. The varying sizes, shapes, aromas, and flavors of fruits grown in different regions highlight the need for a more precise method of differentiating one variety from another.

GEOGRAPHY/HISTORY

Maracuya, or Yellow Passion Fruit, has its roots in the Amazon Rainforest of South America, where it has been cultivated for centuries. The exact origin of maracuya is uncertain, but some believe it to be a hybrid of two species, P. edulis (sour purple passionfruit) and P. ligularis (sweet granadilla). Others suggest that the yellow fruit was a spontaneous mutation discovered in Australia. Passionfruit was already well-established in Australia by 1900 and had spread to Hawaii by the end of the 19th century. The first recorded identification of maracuya was in Brazil in 1932. However, recent discussions among botanists have raised questions about the original classification of yellow passionfruit varieties. Maracuya thrives in the hot and tropical lowlands of countries like Peru, Venezuela, Colombia, Brazil, and Guyana. You can find maracuya at markets throughout northern South America.

Yellow passion fruit can also be found in the Caribbean and Central America, but these may be different varieties. In Costa Rica, maracuya has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century, when it was introduced to the country as a potential crop. Despite its initial popularity, it wasn't until the mid-1980s that maracuya production gained significant traction in Costa Rica, largely due to the efforts of small-scale farmers. Today, maracuya remains an important crop for many farmers in the country and is known for its sweet, juicy flesh and fragrant aroma.

WHERE TO BUY

One practical way to have access to real passion fruit is via shelf stable purees.  Costa Rica has one of the best and most popular types of Maracuya.  So much people never forget their flavor when they vacation down there. Here's a quick way to have one of these gems at your house in a few days or even tomorrow. Jungle Pulp is a Costa Rica owned brand  based in the US. Click below.