Fruits of Thailand

Thailand is home to many unique fruits, - a true paradise for tropical fruits. The combination of a good, hot, tropical climate with abundant rainfall in Thailand is ideal for growing a huge variety of fruits. Modern agricultural technology also ensures that from the rich and fertile soil of Thailand there is a year-round harvest, and one can find the full array of Thai fruits at almost any public market. At any time of the year there are at least a dozen different fruits to be found.

Some Thai fruits are incredibly sweet and juicy, whilst the taste and appearance of others may seem strange and exotic to visitors.

Some fruits are seasonal in Thailand, but there is always a wide choice available, so you can be assured of plenty opportunity to sample the new, as well as, the strong aromas and distinctive tastes associated with these fruits.

Most Thai fruits are not only seasonal but also regional. In northern Thailand, for example, where the climate is more temperate than Bangkok and the south, fruits familiar to western eyes are cultivated. Among them are apples, grapes and strawberries, though far more common are Longans, Pineapples, Rambutan and Mangoes.

Traditionally, fruit compliments almost every meal.

The most common way fruit is eaten in Thailand is simply by removing the skin and biting into it. Thais generally prefer to eat their fruits fresh and a little unripe. Ordering a plate of fresh fruits in season can provide you with some of the most exotic fruit tastes and flavours you're ever likely to come across.

Thailand's abundant fruits are served though in a wide variety of ways:

• for very special occasions the fruits are intricately carved
• sometimes the fruit are stuffed, one into another
• or just mixed to give a blend of tastes
• they even turn a lot into jams, juices and other preserved foods.

Thai fruits are at the height of their maturity and available during the following months:

• From January to April, there are grapes, Jackfruit, Strawberries and Tangerines.
• Next come, Mangoes, Marina plum, Lychee, Pineapples, Mangosteens, Rambutan and Durian.
• From July on, Longons are ripe, as well as Lanzones, Pomelos and Custard apples with Sapodillo, Grapes and Jujube to follow.

Throughout the year Bananas, Coconuts, Guava, Oranges, Papaya and Watermelon are always available.

More information on some of the fruits is available by clicking on the name of the fruit below: