Cherimoya

The cherimoya is the fruit of the annona tree and is native to the mountain regions of Peru and Ecuador. Today it is grown in many temperate climates including, within the United States, southern California, Florida, and, to a lesser extent, Maui. This delicious fruit is sometimes referred to as a custard apple because the consistency of the pulp is soft and custardy; the ivory flesh also contains black seeds, which are not eaten. Other names for the cherimoya include sugar apple and sweetsop. Cherimoyas are sure to amaze anyone experiencing this fruit for the first time. They are almost heart-shaped; their skin looks very much like a cross between an artichoke and a pineapple; and their flavor is a wonderful tropical combination of pineapple, mango, and banana. Cherimoyas are best eaten chilled, either cut into halves or quarters with the pulp scooped out using a spoon, or juiced and strained to make sorbet or ice cream. They should be purchased when they are still firm and left at room temperature to ripen. They can then be stored, covered, in the refrigerator for up to four days.