Feijoa ✦

Feijoa

What it is

Named for the Brazilian naturalist João da Silva Feijó, the shrub reached Europe in 1890 when Édouard André carried plants back from Uruguay; the seedlings that followed founded the orchards of California and then New Zealand. The fruit is never picked — it drops when it is ready, and is gathered off the ground.

In the kitchen

Halve it and scoop with a teaspoon — the flesh browns within minutes in air, so cut to order or wipe the face with lemon. Ripeness is read at the core: translucent jelly is right, brown jelly is already past.

Goes with

Lime Ginger Yogurt Honey Vanilla Apple Cream Mint

In season alongside

Kiwi Yuzu Lingonberry Apple Bell pepper Bergamot

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