Rambutan
The “hairy lychee”
The rambutan is a tropical fruit from Asia that belongs to the same family as lychees. It has a hairy shell that gives it its name: the word “rambutan” comes from “rambut” which means “hair” in Malay. Its firm, sweet flesh is similar to that of its cousin, the lychee, and also that of grapes. It is less juicy, but no less delicious. It can be eaten fresh, and also in jams and compotes.
Rambutan contains vitamin C which has multiple properties (slowing down cell ageing, preventing cardiovascular disease and certain cancers, protecting against infections, supporting the health of bones, cartilage, teeth and gums), iron which promotes blood circulation, and potassium which is beneficial for cardiovascular health.