About sapodilla
Sapodilla (Manilkara zapota) is a tropical evergreen tree native to Central America and southern Mexico, now widely cultivated across Southeast Asia, South Asia, and parts of the Caribbean. The fruit is commonly known as sapodilla, chico, chikoo, or chiku, depending on the region. The tree produces round to oval brown fruits with thin, rough skin and a soft, granular flesh when fully ripe. Unripe fruit contains high levels of latex-like compounds that cause strong astringency, which disappears as the fruit matures.
When ripe, sapodilla is notable for its exceptionally high natural sugar content and its distinctive flavor profile, often described as malty, caramel-like, or reminiscent of brown sugar and dried fruit. The flesh is typically beige to brown and contains several large, smooth black seeds. Sapodilla is consumed fresh and is also used in desserts, drinks, and traditional preparations. Beyond its culinary value, the tree has historical importance as the original source of chicle, a natural gum once used in chewing gum production.
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