Today we take a look at one of the most popular fruits in Guyana, the carambola or five finger.
The carambola, known to us as the five finger but popularly as the starfruit is the fruit of the Averrhoa carambola, a species of tree native to the Aaian subcontinent, as well as the south Pacific and Micronesia. However its popularity has grown over the past few decades in Latin America, the Caribbean and the southern US.
The fruit itself can grow as large as 15cm and appears oval in shape. It has five distinct ridged running along its sides, which is why it is called five finger. This allows it to appear as a star when cut in cross section, hence the name starfruit as well. In terms of colour, it can appear light to dark yellow on the outside when ripe but has a translucent succulent flesh on the inside.
Carambolas are wholly edible and can be eaten off hand or used in various dishes or jams.
However, not only is this fruit a 10 on the scale of deliciousness, it also has some overwhelming health benefits. Carambolas are rich in antioxidants, Vitamin C and potassium. They are also low in sugar, sodium and acids. Starfruit also have an apparent antimicrobial property, being somewhat effective against E. coli, Staph. aureus and others.
The carambola tree usually bears fruits twice yearly, April to June and October to December, but there are some instances where trees bear year round.
We’re almost heading into carambola season, so be on the lookout at the various markets around the country.
