Rambutans

Rambutans

68 kcal per 100 g

Category: Fruits

Nutritional information (per 100 g)

Calories 68 kcal
Protein 0.9g
Carbohydrates 16.5g
Sugars 13.2g
Total fats 0.2g
Fiber 1.3g

Vitamins and minerals

Folate 22mcg
Potassium 42mg
Vitamin C 8.1mg

Description

Rambutans are exotic tropical fruits native to Southeast Asia, particularly from countries like Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. Their name comes from the Malay word "rambut", meaning hair, referring to their characteristic skin covered in small, soft spines or "hairs", which can vary in color from bright red to yellow and orange.

This fruit is similar in size to a grape and contains a juicy, translucent, and sweet pulp inside, with a texture similar to that of a lychee. The pulp is very refreshing and has a sweet flavor with a slight acidic touch, making it ideal for desserts, fruit salads, smoothies, or to be consumed fresh.

In terms of their properties, rambutans are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and dietary fiber, which helps strengthen the immune system, improve digestion, and protect cells from oxidative damage. Additionally, they contain minerals such as iron, which helps combat anemia.

In Latin America, although the fruit is less common, it can also be found under names such as "rambután" (the singular form usually used) or simply "hairy fruit", although the latter is less frequent. In some tropical regions where it is cultivated, it is identified by its original Malay name or the term rambutans.