Explore the world of extraordinary fruits and vegetables with our arresting collection of 20 unusual varieties . Each one offer a unequalled taste , appearance , or growing wont that sets it apart from the common produce get in grocery store .
From visually entrance patterns to flavors that gainsay your perceptiveness buds , these fruits and vegetables are sure to surprise and machination .
Whether you ’re a daring foodie or only curious , cut into into this list to discover the hidden gems of the plant kingdom , and perhaps even find new darling to add to your culinary repertoire .
1. Buddha’s Hand
Buddha ’s Hand is a mesmerize citrus fruit known for its alone , hand - like appearance with elongated , finger - like segments . It ’s not your typical citrus tree , lacking blue pulp magazine . or else , it offers a inviolable lemon redolence , nominate it utter for zesting or as a raw air freshener .
Imagine slice through its bright yellowish peel to relinquish a burst of citrus aroma . Though not commonly eaten raw , its tang is cherish in culinary and perfumery worlds . Picture these vibrant segments beautifully arranged in a fruit arena , adding an exotic hint to your kitchen decor .
2. Romanesco Broccoli
Romanesco Broccoli is a ocular chef-d’oeuvre of the vegetable world . Its striking , spiral fractal design is not only a treat for the eye but also a will to nature ’s mathematical beauty .
The smart fleeceable , tightly pack florets imprint thoroughgoing logarithmic spirals , fascinate anyone who stare upon it . apart from its looks , Romanesco offer a taste interchangeable to broccoli but with a nuttier flavor .
It holds its shape well when cooked , making it a delicious add-on to conjure - tike and salads . Imagine this arresting vegetable as the centerpiece of your next meal .
© Brighter Blooms
3. Jabuticaba
Jabuticaba is a fascinating Brazilian yield that defies conventional growth patterns by sprouting directly on the trunk and branches of its tree . The round , cryptical purple yield resemble grapevine but with a thick skin .
As you sting into one , have a bun in the oven a burst of sweet , tart flavor with a hint of floral notes . It ’s a tropical delight often delight fresh , in jams , or fermented into vino .
icon a tree diagram adorned with clusters of these jewel - similar fruits , offering a unique visual and gastronomic experience in your own backyard garden .
© Sow True Seed
4. Chayote
Chayote , a staple in Latin American culinary art , is a various squash with a mild flavor remindful of cucumber . Its pale green , crinkle pelt and pear - corresponding shape make it easy placeable .
When cooked , it absorbs surrounding flavor , shit it an excellent addition to stews and sautés . Raw , it can be thinly slice for salads , offering a snappy grain .
Imagine incorporating Chayote into your next dish , adding a nutritional boost with its rich vitamin content . It ’s not just a vegetable ; it ’s a canvas for culinary creative thinking , adaptable to various cooking methods .
© Amazon.com
5. Salak (Snake Fruit)
Salak , commonly known as Snake Fruit , hails from Southeast Asia and is easily identify by its reddish - brown , scaly skin . Peeling it away reveals a firm , emollient - colour physical body with a unique sweet - tart flavor , often compared to a mix of apples and ananas .
Its crunchy grain makes it a refreshing collation , perfect for adventurous eaters . Imagine holding this intriguing fruit , feel its scaly grain , and taking a snack to experience its discrete predilection .
Whether consume fresh or used in desserts , Salak offers a delightful surprisal , both visually and gastronomically .
© The Spruce Eats
6. Purple Sweet Potato
The Purple Sweet Potato stand up out not only for its vivacious colour but also for its exceptional taste perception . Unlike unconstipated sweet potatoes , this assortment gasconade a deep purple flesh rich in antioxidant .
Its tone is sweet with insidious nutty undertones , realise it a versatile ingredient in both savoury and sweet dishes . Imagine baking these potatoes to enhance their instinctive fragrancy or coquette them for a visually arresting side dish .
The striking color adds an artistic soupcon to any plate , encouraging culinary experiment while providing nutritional benefit .
© Export Premium Spices & Fruits
7. Miracle Fruit
Miracle Fruit , small in size of it but big in impact , is known for its ability to transform sullen discernment into cherubic ones . This red Chuck Berry originates from West Africa and has been challenging taste adventurers worldwide .
Imagine eating a lemon and experiencing an unexpected fragrancy ; that ’s the magic of Miracle Fruit . It temporarily alters taste receptor , offering a unique sensory experience .
Culinary enthusiasts apply it for “ spirit - tripping ” parties , allow guests to savor glum foods in a new way . These berry , though tiny , open a Earth of playful culinary experiment , blending science and gastronomy .
© OSA Gourmet
8. Mangosteen
Mangosteen , often hail as the “ nance of Fruits , ” boasts a thick , purple rind encasing juicy , sugared whitened segments .
Native to Southeast Asia , its flavor is a symmetrical blend of sweetness and tang , often described as a mix of peach and pineapple . The fruit is as delightful to seem at as it is to eat , with a contour that resembles a small , refined ball .
Picture halve one to let on the delicious segment inside , ready to be savored . Mangosteen not only offers a tropic escapism in flavor but also a visual treat with its regal appearance .
© Gardener’s Path
9. Yacon
Yacon , a root vegetable native to the Andes , surprises many with its crisp , risque flesh reminiscent of an apple and watermelon vine loan-blend . Its sweet , refreshing appreciation makes it a delicious bite , whether eaten raw or added to salad .
video slicing into this light chocolate-brown - skinned root to reveal its translucent interior , ready to be enjoyed . Yacon is not only delicious but also robust in prebiotic fiber , supporting digestive health .
This versatile veggie can also be cooked , offering a insidious sweetness to various stunner , making it a tremendous addition to any culinary repertory .
© Know Your Produce
10. Watermelon Radish
Watermelon Radish , a banquet for the eyes and roof of the mouth , hides its vibrant dish beneath a plain exterior . Once sliced opened , it bring out a stunning pink center that contrasts with its white - immature exterior .
Its flavor is mildly peppery , with a hint of sweetness , bestow a colorful and flavorful punch to dishes . Imagine thin gash layered in a salad or as a garnish , elevating any bag with optical appeal .
This radish is not just a pretty face ; it ’s packed with food and offers a delicious crunch , induce it a favorite among chefs and nursing home James Cook likewise .
© Cultivariable
11. Ice Cream Bean
Ice Cream Bean , a curious legume from tropic regions , veil a sweet surprisal within its foresightful , unripened cod . When open , it reveals flossy clean pulp that tastes unco like vanilla ice emollient .
This unique flavor pee-pee it a favourite among those seeking a innate , guilt - free dessert option . Imagine gazump a pod from a tree and enjoy the sweet , creamy taste of its mush .
Its refreshing flavor and texture make it a delightful treat , perfect for ardent mood . The fun of key this tropical delight tot up an ingredient of surprise to any culinary adventure .
© Basil Food Journal
12. Black Sapote (Chocolate Pudding Fruit)
Black Sapote , aptly nicknamed the Chocolate Pudding Fruit , offer a surprising treat for chocolate lovers . When ripe , its dark , creamy flesh mimics the texture and taste of chocolate pudding , offer up a unequaled , natural dessert .
Imagine scooping into this fruit with a spoon , savoring the rich , umber - similar savor without the guilt .
Native to Central America , Black Sapote is often used in charmer and sweet , making it a versatile ingredient . Its challenging taste and texture make it a search - after airiness for those assay something different yet deliciously cheering .
© tropicalfruitworld
13. Rambutan
Rambutan , with its hairy red exterior , instantly catches the eye . Native to Southeast Asia , this yield is like to lychee but proffer its own unique twist on flavor and grain .
Peeling away the spiky cuticle discover a gamy , translucent livid flesh that ’s scented with a elusive hint of flowered notes . Imagine biting into this tropic joy , the juicy shape providing a refreshing salvo of flavor .
Rambutan is not only delicious but also visually intriguing , making it a democratic selection for those explore exotic fruits . Its playful appearance and delightful taste offer a delightful experience .
© Atlas Obscura
14. Cucamelon (Mexican Sour Gherkin)
Cucamelon , often called Mexican Sour Gherkin , is a delightful miniature fruit that look like a tiny Citrullus vulgaris but tastes like a tangy cucumber . Its small size and unique appearance make it a playfulness improver to any dish .
Imagine pop one into your mouthpiece , the crisp grain give way of life to a refreshing , slightly off-key taste . Often used in salads or pickle , Cucamelons tote up a bite of whimsy and smack to culinary creations .
These magical fruit bring a playful touch to the kitchen and are perfect for adventurous eater face to surprise their taste bud .
© Parade
15. Pineberry
Pineberry , with its striking appearance , offers an unexpected bend on the classical strawberry . Its blank flesh dot with red seed hints at its unique spirit — a delightful compounding of strawberry mark and pineapple .
reckon biting into this fruit , experiencing the sweet , tropical gustation that dare its appearance . Pineberries are not only a visual novelty but also a kickshaw for the gustatory perception bud , provide a refreshing change from traditional strawberries .
They add an alien dash to any fruit salad or afters , making them a favorite among those assay something both different and pleasurably satisfying .
© MIgardener
16. Red Banana
Red Bananas are a vivacious twist on the familiar fruit , shoot a line a reddish - purple peel that encases sweet-flavored , creamy pulp .
Their flavor is sweeter and more aromatic than the common banana tree , with subtle raspberry notes . reckon peeling one of these bananas and enjoy the rich , satisfying appreciation that follows . They ’re consummate for snacking or adding to smoothies and dessert .
Red Bananas not only extend a colorful esthetic but also a sapid experience , making them a delicious alternative to their yellow counterpart . Their unique mouthful and coming into court make them a standout in the fruit universe .
© Stark Bro’s
17. White Asparagus
White Asparagus , a culinary delicacy , differs greatly from its green opposite number . grow without sunlight , it develop a milder gustatory modality and cutter grain . Imagine savoring its pernicious sapidity , enhanced with a touch of nutty sweetness .
Often steamed or grilled , it ’s served as a foodie side dish . pic a plate elegantly dress with these pale spears , offer a visual and gastronomic treat .
White Asparagus is celebrated in European cuisine , particularly during its little spring time of year . Its unique growing process and refined taste make it a sought - after ingredient for discern roof of the mouth .
18. Durian
Durian , lie with as the “ King of yield , ” is famous for its divisive aroma and plentiful , custard - similar texture . Revered in Southeast Asia , its flavor is a complex mix of sweet and savory , often compared to a portmanteau of almonds , cheese , and caramel .
Imagine cracking unfastened its spiky shell to give away the creamy , yellow physical body inside . Despite its strong odor , many find its tasting delicious , making it a must - try for adventurous food lovers .
Durian ’s unique characteristics have realize it both fans and detractors , but it remains an iconic symbol of culinary hardiness and exploration .
© A Sausage Has Two
19. Oca (New Zealand Yam)
Oxalis tuberosa , also jazz as New Zealand Yam , is a vibrant root vegetable usable in a rainbow of colors — pinkish , yellow , and purple . Its crisp texture and tangy , lemony savour make it a unique add-on to any dish .
Imagine roasting these colorful tubers , their flavor intensifying and their grain remaining satisfyingly business firm . Oxalis tuberosa can be boiled , baked , or even eaten raw , offer versatility in formulation .
This alimentary genus Tuber is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the palate , defecate it a ducky among those look to tot variety to their meal .
© Foodie
20. Chempedak
Chempedak , a cheeseparing relative of jackfruit , pop the question an exotic twist with its sweet , aromatic smack and custard - similar grain . Native to Southeast Asia , this yield is celebrated for its rich , tropical taste sensation , reminiscent of banana , mango , and durian .
Imagine open its chummy , green skin to uncover the soft , fragrant flesh at bottom . It ’s a various fruit , delight fresh or deep - fry in local delicacies .
Chempedak not only captivate with its bold flavour but also with its unique texture , providing an unforgettable culinary experience for those eager to explore beyond formal fruit offerings .
© Amazon UK
© Etsy
