When we think of the Caribbean we imagine paradisiacal beaches, white sands and crystal clear waters.

However, this region is also home to an unparalleled gastronomic richness.

Among the Caribbean’s greatest treasures are its tropical fruits, which offer unique and exotic flavours that delight the palate and help us connect with the biodiversity of these natural paradises.

Today we’re going to explore some of the most interesting fruits from Mexico, the Dominican Republic and Jamaica. Get ready for a voyage of discovery!

Tropical flavours from Mexico

If you’re thinking of visiting the Riviera Maya, don’t miss out on these delicious exotic fruits.

1. Chicozapote

The chicozapote, also known as zicazapote, soapapple and other names, is a fruit native to Mesoamerica that has been popular since pre-Hispanic times.

Its peel is brown and its pulp, also brown, is soft and sweet with a hint of spice.

It is common in states such as Yucatan, Campeche and Quintana Roo.

Interestingly, the natural chewing gum used by the Mayan and Aztec civilisations was once extracted from chicozapote.

Today it is enjoyed either fresh or as an ingredient in sweets and desserts.

2. Pitahaya

The pitahaya (or pitaya), also known as the dragon fruit, sprouts from a hardy, succulent cactus.

It grows mainly in the sunny states of Guerrero, Quintana Roo, Tabasco, Puebla and Yucatan.

Over time it has had a variety of uses. Pre-Hispanic cultures fermented pitahayas in clay pots in the sun as part of their harvest celebrations, and it is also known for its healing properties.

Nowadays we can enjoy this fresh drink in delicious desserts, jellies, drinks and fried foods, which have a high nutritional value.

3. Caimito

The caimito, also known as ‘star apple’ and ‘purple star’, because of the pattern it forms when cut, is a fruit with a shiny green or purple skin, depending on the variety.

Its flesh is white, sweet and juicy, with a texture reminiscent of jelly.

Native to tropical regions of Mexico, it is found in local markets and is a favourite for cooling off on hot days.

Curiously, the milk exuded from its peel was used in the past to create natural dyes.

Tropical flavours of Jamaica

Jamaica is home to a wide variety of tropical fruits, many of which are not only delicious but also unique to the island.

If you’re planning on visiting, here’s a list of must-try fruits that will give you a true taste of Jamaican flavour:

4. Ackee

First on the list is ackee, Jamaica’s national fruit and a true cultural icon.

Originally native to West Africa, ackee was brought to Jamaica in the 18th century and has since become a staple of the island’s cuisine.

When cooked, its creamy, buttery texture and mild nutty flavor make it the perfect companion to salted cod in Jamaica’s national dish, Ackee and Saltfish.

While ackee trees can be found in gardens and rural areas across the island, a word of caution is important—ackee is only safe to eat when fully ripened and naturally opened.

This fascinating fruit is a testament to Jamaica’s ability to turn something delicate into a celebrated culinary gem.

5. June plum

Next up is the June plum, also known as golden apple or ambarella.

Believed to have originated in Southeast Asia, this tangy fruit has found a welcoming home in Jamaica’s tropical climate.

When green, June plum has a tart and tangy taste, often enjoyed dipped in salt for a zesty snack.

As it ripens, the fruit transforms into a sweet and juicy delight, perfect for eating fresh or blending into a refreshing drink.

Easily found in local street markets or backyard trees, the June plum is cherished by Jamaicans for its versatility and flavor—a true treat for the adventurous palate.

Nutritionally, the June plum is high in vitamin C, which supports the immune system, and offers significant fiber content, aiding digestion.

Its iron and antioxidant properties also contribute to overall health, making it not only a delicious but also a beneficial fruit.

6. Sweetsop

Finally, the sweetsop, or sugar apple, adds a touch of indulgence to Jamaica’s fruit offerings.

Native to tropical regions of the Americas, this fruit was introduced to Jamaica during colonial times and has since become a local favorite.

With its segmented green skin and soft, custard-like interior, sweetsop is as visually striking as it is delicious.

Its sweet, creamy pulp is often scooped out with a spoon and enjoyed as a dessert or snack.

Found in rural areas and fruit stands across the island, sweetsop is a testament to the simple yet luxurious pleasures of Jamaican life.

Tropical flavours of the Dominican Republic

In the Dominican Republic every fruit both tells a story and connects us with nature in its purest form.

Ready to learn about these culinary gems?

7. Guava

The guava is a small, round or slightly oval tropical fruit.

Its skin can vary in colour from light green to yellow, depending on its ripeness. Inside it harbours a flesh of vibrant hues ranging from white to pink or red and dotted with small edible seeds.

The taste of the guava is a unique combination of sweetness and acidity with a floral note that makes it unmistakable.

In the Dominican Republic the guava is consumed fresh or in natural juices, and is also used in jams, jellies and traditional sweets.

It is the star ingredient in the preparation of guava paste, a kind of thick jam that is combined with white cheese to form a classic dessert known as ‘Romeo and Juliet’.

8. Tamarind

The tamarind grows in long brown pods containing a dark, fibrous, sticky pulp that surrounds small, hard seeds.

This tropical tree is native to Africa but has been naturalised in the Caribbean and is found in many Dominican backyards.

Its flavour is intensely sweet and sour, with an acidic touch that makes it very refreshing and versatile in the kitchen.

It forms the basis for one of the most traditional drinks in the Dominican Republic: tamarind juice.

It is also used to make sauces and handmade candies, and in some local markets you’ll find tamarind balls coated in sugar or chilli.

It also has digestive properties and is used in traditional home remedies to relieve constipation and/or refresh the organism.

9. Dominican lemongrass

Known in other countries as mamoncillo or quenepa, this fruit grows in clusters and has a thin, hard, bright green skin.

In its interior a juicy yellow or orange flesh covers a large seed.

Lemongrass is sweet with a hint of sour, and its gelatinous texture makes it distinctive to the palate. Enjoying it to the full involves an interactive experience as it must be peeled with the teeth and the pulp sucked out directly.

In the Dominican Republic lemongrass is a popular snack fruit, especially in summer.

It is associated with childhood memories, as many children either buy it from street vendors or pick it directly from the trees.

In addition to eating it fresh, its juice is used in some refreshing drinks, and the seeds, although not eaten, are sometimes roasted as a snack.

More than a mere list, these fruits are an invitation to immerse yourself in the essence of the Caribbean.

Every mouthful is an explosion of flavour that helps connect us to both tropical culture and nature itself. Aside from being delicious, these fruits also offer significant nutritional benefits.

Come to Princess Hotels in the Caribbean and try them all. Which one was your favourite?

Categories: Caribbean, Gastronomy, Jamaica, Punta Cana, Riviera Maya