Star Fruit - Real Food Encyclopedia - FoodPrint

Sustainability of star fruit

Star fruit has been relatively tricky to grow in the U.S., which is generally cooler and drier than the areas the plant is native to. It requires rich soil and is sensitive to cooler temperatures and wind. In Florida, where growers are looking for other fruits to supplement citrus and avocado crops, there has been a decent-sized commercial star fruit industry since the 1970s. Today, researchers are looking at how cover crops can be used to support increased growth of the fruit, which would also cut back on the industry’s use of fertilizer by developing biodiverse, fertile soil.

Pesticides

Star fruit plants are susceptible to some insect pests including aphids and mites. Commercial producers may use pesticides, but growers using biological methods, such as releasing predatory wasps to control pests, have seen success. To avoid potential toxic exposure, purchase organic star fruit when possible.

Water

As star fruits are native to subtropical and tropical climates, the plant has high water needs.

Seasonality

Star fruits are harvested during two periods in South Florida — from August to September and December through February. Depending on the grower’s planting schedule, you can likely find local the fruit year round.

Geography

Carambola is grown commercially throughout Southeast Asia, Australia and South American. It is also grown commercially in the Southern United States; Florida represents approximately 90 percent of U.S. production, with the remaining mostly being grown in Hawai’i.

Eating star fruit

The entire fruit can be eaten, including the waxy skin, making it easy to eat raw. To cut the fruit, place on a cutting board and gently run a sharp knife along each of the five ridges (or “star points”), removing and discarding the brown outer edge. Hold the star fruit horizontally and cut crosswise to your desired thickness; the pieces will look like stars. Use the tip of the knife to remove the seeds. The fruit can be cut down into smaller pieces, but the iconic shape is half the fun of using the tropical fruit.

Storing

If you buy a green carambola, you can store it at room temperature (away from sunlight) for a few days, and it will turn to yellow. Store star fruit with brown ridges in the refrigerator for up to four days to avoid over ripening. (Overripe fruit will have brown spots all over and can have a fermented flavor.)