Starfruit (Carambola) | Tropical Fruits

starfruit

The starfruit is one of many popular tropical fruits in Malaysia that are enjoyed by all races of different cultures and backgrounds. As the name implies, the starfruit looks like a five-pointed star when you cut a cross section of this fruit. The starfruit is also referred to as carambola. The starfruit, native to Southeast Asia, has an excellent crisp texture and is extremely juicy.

In Malay term, the starfruit is called belimbing. It’s one of the most delicious fruits in Malaysia that are available throughout the year. The uncut starfruit is a little like an elongated egg-shaped torpedo with five fins. The waxy skin is green in the unripe fruit, turning to a pale yellow or even rich gold as it ripens.

Starfruit (Carambola)

The fruit should be eaten while still firm for it quickly loses its flavor once it softens. The edge of each ridge of the starfruit is bitter and should be sliced off before the fruit is served. The central pith, which may contain a few small seeds, can be removed during eating.

The fruit is entirely edible, including the slightly waxy skin. It is sweet without being overwhelming and extremely juicy. The taste is difficult to compare, but it has been likened to a mix of papaya, orange and grapefruit all at once.

Most starfruit are somewhat tart in flavor, but a hybrid known as Honey Starfruit is sweet and fragrant. The starfruit is rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, and low in sugar, sodium and acid. It is also is a potent source of both primary and secondary poly phenolic antioxidants.

Starfruit (Malay: Belimbing)

In Malaysia, the starfruit is available in most hypermarkets and wet markets. It should cost no more than RM2 per piece. Generally, the cost of starfruit goes by weigh. All in all, the star fruit is one of the most eaten fruits in Malaysia. As an expat or tourist, the starfruit is definitely a local tropical fruit that you don’t want to miss.