Averrhoa carambola, commonly known as the starfruit or carambola, is a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia but now grown in various tropical and subtropical regions around the world. The fruit gets its name from its distinctive star-like shape when sliced horizontally, revealing a star-shaped cross-section.
Key characteristics of Averrhoa carambola include:
Shape and Appearance: The fruit is typically oval or ellipsoid, and when sliced, it reveals a five-pointed star shape. The skin is waxy and smooth, often yellow or green, and the flesh is translucent and ranges in color from yellow to green, depending on ripeness.
Flavor: Starfruit has a sweet and slightly tart taste, with a unique, tropical flavor. The taste can vary depending on the ripeness; ripe starfruits are sweeter, while unripe ones can be quite tangy.
Edible Parts: The entire fruit, including the skin, is edible. The skin is thin and can be eaten, though some people prefer to remove it due to its slightly bitter taste.