From a distance the carambola looks not unlike a lemon or a squat banana. Cut in half, it has a star-shaped cross-section, which has given it the alternative name star-fruit. It has waxy yellow skin and astringent slightly nondescript flesh, and in the West its role has not extended much beyond that of a decoration for fruit salads. In Malaysia, it is far more widely used, in savoury as well as sweet dishes, and in pickles and chutneys.
Carambola has many benefits that can do good to health.
- Strengthens the immune system;
- Helps in weight loss;
- Controls diabetes;
- Protects the heart;
- Increases the production of breast milk;
- Does good for hair;
- Combat microbes;
- Improves skin health;
- Help in pregnancy;
- Prevents cancer;
- Improves digestion;
- Prevents anemia.
How To Consume Carambola
You can simply eat the fruit. The carambola can be found in jellies, syrup, juices and jams. It can be used as a garnish for baking and as an ingredient in salads.It depends on how you like and how you want to use the fruit.
Carambola Recipes /Carambola candy
Ingredients
- 1 unit of carambola;
- 1 spoon of coconut sugar for each carambola unit;
- 1 stick of cinnamon
Method of preparation
First, wash the carambolas, cut off the hard tips of the fruit and fatie horizontally, forming the “stars”. Then remove the seeds. Then, place the sugar, cinnamon stick and carambola slices in a pan over very low heat. The fruit will release water and you should keep stirring until you notice the carambola soften. Put it in the refrigerator and eat cold.
Carambola Chutney
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon peppercorns;
- 3 units of chopped seeded carambola;
- 4 tablespoons demerara sugar;
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon.
Method of preparation
Chop the carambola as explained in the first recipe. In a small saucepan, place all the ingredients and cook for 20 minutes or until the candy is creamy. Serve with any salted or even as accompaniment for your lunch.
General recommendations On Carambola
There is no doubt that the carambola is an fruitful fruit. Studies show that it is a potential danger for those who have kidney problems , their toxin could also affect healthy people.People with any type of kidney problem should cautiously consult a physician, health professional or even nutritionist before consuming the carambola fruit.
