Region of Origin
Commodity:
Cherimoya
Description & Origin
Cherimoyas are typically an oval or egg-like shaped fruit that vary in average from 2-4 inches in diameter. The color may also vary from light green to dark green, but they all have a distinguishable pattern that makes the fruit appear scaly. It has an ivory-colored flesh that is creamy and tender and often compared to the texture of ice cream. It is known to have a tropical but sweet flavor with ...
Health Benefits & Nutrition
Cherimoya contains vitamins B and C and is a great source of fiber and is beneficial to the body’s immunity and digestive systems. Traditionally, cherimoya has been used to help reduce inflammation.
Commercial Availability (Grown for the US Market)
Foodservice Tips
Traditional Culinary Uses
Cherimoyas are most commonly eaten raw, but can be used in ice creams and sherberts, blended into smoothies, and added to fruit salads. It is traditionally used in some Latin American desserts, such as the Peruvian Cherimoya Alegre. This traditional Peruvian dessert simply consists of cherimoya mixed with orange juice, and it is occasionally enjoyed with a scoop of orange sorbet or vanilla ice cream.
Flavor Pairings
Avocado, Banana, Lemon, Lime, Mango, Orange, Pineapple, Strawberry, Jalapeño, Red Onion, Cilantro, Vanilla, Yogurt, Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Oatmeal
How to Prepare
To serve cherimoya, the fruit must be cut in half and the seeds discarded, as they are toxic to humans. Then, the flesh can be scooped out or the skin can be peeled.
How to Store & Use in the Kitchen
When ripe, store cherimoya in the cold part of the refrigerator. Do not freeze ripe cherimoya as this can lead to chilling injury. If unripe, store cherimoya on the counter. Once cherimoya is cut, it can only last a few days and should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Fight Food Waste Tips for root to stem cooking
The skin and the seeds are both not edible and should be discarded. The flesh is the only usable part of the fruit.
Warehouse Storage & Handling
Maintain these conditions for optimal short-term storage shelf life.*
IDEAL STORAGE TEMP:
32-41°F
RECOMMENDED TEMP STORAGE ZONE:
32-39°F (Cold Storage)
SUBJECT TO CHILLING INJURY:
Yes
RELATIVE HUMIDITY:
90-95%
PRODUCES ETHYLENE:
Yes - High
SENSITIVE TO ETHYLENE:
Yes - High
Quality Assessment
Look for a fruit free of bruises and cracks, but keep in mind the cherimoya varies in color and size. Cherimoya is at its most ripe stage when it gives slightly to gentle pressure. Cherimoya is an extremely delicate fruit, so handle carefully.
Optimum Shelf Life
Depending on variety, conditions at harvest, and handling, Cherimoya may last up to 2-4 weeks.
