The humble Custard Apple

Hello fellow flora enthusiasts, 
Welcome to the very first edition of our produce highlight series, where we let our humble fruit and veg take the stand, and do a bit of the talking. 
We are kicking things off with the often misunderstood, completely underrated, crocodile-like Cherimoya… otherwise known as zee custard apple
Our resident product designer/owner Maddy was drawn to this fruit because of its bold sculptural form, its beautiful colour tone and its unique personality. If happening to chance by this fruit on a dating app, it would definitely fall into the category of the “quirky mysterious gal with a tough exterior but brimming with sweetness once you buy them a drink at a chic record bar and ask them the right questions”. 
Thought to have originated in the Andes mountains of South America, it’s grown in tropical areas with high altitudes.

So …. How exactly do you eat it? 

custard apple is ripe when you gently squeeze it and it gives slightly under your hand. Much the same as an avocado. To eat, simply cut in half and scoop out the white flesh. 
Those who have not indulged in this glorious fruit before will be pleasantly surprised by the sweetness of the creamy flesh, which resembles and tastes somewhat like custard (shocking we know). If you want to hasten the ripening process then simply put the fruit into a brown paper bag with a banana and leave it on the kitchen bench.
Cook Adam Liaw, of MasterChef fame, says the green-skinned fruit makes delicious sorbets, tarts and pie and pairs well when tossed through an asian salad. Here is a link to one of his recipes for custard apple and passionfruit cheese cake (YUM!): https://www.smh.com.au/lifestyle/what-to-do-with-custard-apples-20120423-1xg1v.html
Did you know?
The custard apple is an excellent source of vitamin B6, which plays an important role in the creation of neurotransmitters, including serotonin and dopamine, which help regulate your mood. Why is this not common knowledge...??
How to style your custard apple
We think this waxy number is styled picturesquely in the kitchen where it provides you with warmth and good company as you cook your romantic dinner for one. Toast or a hand rolled pasta, you're up for a special night with your one and only ~ Custard Apple.
Love Nonna xxx
Back to blog