Fruits of Guadeloupe

What are the fruits of Guadeloupe ?

Among Guadeloupe's fruit treasures, the banana, locally nicknamed "figue," holds a special place. Cultivated since the 17th century, it comes in several varieties, each offering a distinct flavor. The Victoria pineapple, with its juicy and sweet flesh, is another delight not to be missed. The mango, available in season, charms with its sweetness and intoxicating aroma. The soursop, a fruit with a tangy taste, is appreciated for its digestive properties. The papaya, rich in vitamins, is often eaten at breakfast. The passion fruit, or maracudja, enchants with its tangy and aromatic pulp. Finally, the coconut, omnipresent, is enjoyed fresh or incorporated into various culinary preparations.

Victoria pineapple

The Victoria pineapple is a true pearl of the Antilles, renowned for its exceptional taste and ideal small size. Grown under the generous Guadeloupean sun, it stands out with its bright yellow flesh and sweet, delicately tangy flavor. Unlike other varieties, it is particularly juicy and offers a burst of freshness with every bite.

This exotic fruit, rich in vitamin C and bromelain, is not only delicious but also beneficial for digestion and immune system strengthening. On the markets, you will recognize it by its compact crown and golden scales. To fully enjoy its richness, choose a pineapple that is firm to the touch with a slightly sweet fragrance.

Whether in dessert, juice, or incorporated into savory dishes, the Victoria pineapple enhances all preparations. Don’t miss the chance to taste this specialty, a true reflection of Guadeloupe’s agricultural wealth.

Papaya

Papaya, a tropical fruit emblematic of the islands, is a true concentrate of flavors and benefits. In Guadeloupe, it is particularly prized for its bright orange flesh, sweet and tender, revealing a perfect balance between sweetness and acidity. This fruit is ideal for culinary adventurers and wellness enthusiasts.

Rich in vitamins A and C, papaya is known for its antioxidant properties and digestive benefits, thanks to a natural enzyme called papain. On local markets, choose a papaya that is soft to the touch, with slightly golden skin, a sign of ripeness.

Delicious on its own, papaya also lends itself to many recipes: fruit salads, smoothies, or as an accompaniment for savory dishes like grilled fish. This exotic fruit, both healthy and tasty, is a must-have on Guadeloupe’s markets, transporting you with its unique taste and incomparable freshness.

Soursop (Corossol)

Soursop, also known as graviola, is an atypical tropical fruit with a unique taste and many benefits. In Guadeloupe, it stands out with its original appearance, featuring a green spiky skin and juicy white flesh. Its subtle aroma reminds one of a mix between lemon and strawberry, offering a sweet and slightly tangy flavor.

This fruit is particularly appreciated for its nutritional properties: rich in vitamins C and B, it is an excellent ally for strengthening the immune system. Moreover, it contains antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and promote general well-being.

Ideal for fresh juices, desserts, or simply eaten raw, soursop is highly sought after on Guadeloupe’s markets. To choose a good fruit, opt for one that is firm but slightly soft, indicating perfect ripeness. Discover this tropical treasure and let yourself be seduced by its original flavors and exceptional benefits.

Passion fruit (Maracudja)

Passion fruit, also called maracudja, is a staple of tropical markets, appreciated for its intense flavor and culinary versatility. Originating from the Antilles, this fruit is distinguished by its wrinkled skin when ripe and juicy pulp filled with crunchy seeds. Its captivating aroma, a mix of sweetness and acidity, makes it a favorite among lovers of exotic flavors.

Rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, maracudja is a true health asset. It stimulates the immune system, promotes good digestion, and provides natural hydration. For the best experience, choose a fruit that is heavy and wrinkled, a sign of maturity and flavor.

Maracudja can be eaten raw with a spoon but is also ideal for preparing juices, desserts, or sauces. In sorbets or mixed into cocktails, it brings a refreshing and exotic touch. This little tropical gem is a true explosion of flavors, worth discovering during your visit to Guadeloupe’s markets.

Guava (Goyave)

Guava, an iconic fruit of tropical regions, is a natural delight not to be missed at Guadeloupe’s markets. This fruit is distinguished by its thin skin, green or yellow depending on the variety, and tender flesh that can be pink or white. Its subtle taste, blending sweetness and acidity, makes it a favored choice for lovers of authentic flavors.

Rich in vitamins C and A, guava is a true concentrate of health benefits. It is recognized for its antioxidant properties, its role in boosting the immune system, and its beneficial effects on digestion thanks to its high fiber content. A single guava can contain up to 228 mg of vitamin C, four times more than an orange.

This versatile fruit can be eaten fresh but is also ideal for jams, juices, or desserts. To choose a quality guava, prefer one that is firm with a strong fragrance, an indicator of ripeness. When enjoying a guava, you benefit not only from an explosion of flavors but also from a precious ally for your well-being.

Banana

The banana, a must-have at Guadeloupe’s markets, is much more than a simple fruit: it embodies a deeply rooted cultural and agricultural richness in the Antilles. Whether small and sweet, like the figue pomme banana, or large and savory, like the plantain banana, it comes in several varieties suited to all tastes.

This fruit is a true nutrient mine. Rich in potassium, fiber, and vitamin B6, the banana helps maintain good heart health, improves digestion, and provides a natural source of energy. It is especially popular with athletes for its quick sugar supply and satiating effect.

Ideally eaten raw, banana is also used in many recipes: fried, desserts, smoothies, or as an accompaniment to savory dishes. To choose a perfect banana, select those with uniformly yellow skin, or slightly spotted, a sign of maturity.

Sapodilla (Sapotille)

Sapodilla, a little-known but deliciously sweet tropical fruit, is a true treasure of Guadeloupe’s markets. This small fruit with rough brown skin hides tender and juicy flesh with a unique taste reminiscent of caramel or honey. Its melting texture makes it an irresistible pleasure for lovers of exotic fruits.

Rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants, sapodilla is a precious ally for your health. It promotes good digestion, strengthens the immune system, and helps maintain radiant skin. With its natural sugar content, it also provides an excellent energy source.

To enjoy its full flavor, choose a sapodilla that is slightly soft to the touch, indicating perfect ripeness. Eaten raw, it is enjoyed with a spoon after being cut in half, but it can also be incorporated into desserts or smoothies for a gourmet touch.

Quenette

Quenette, also known as “gros yeux” in some regions, is a small tropical fruit very popular in Guadeloupe, appreciated for its sweet and tangy flavor. It comes with smooth green skin enclosing orange, juicy, and fragrant pulp surrounding a large seed.

Rich in vitamins A and C, quenette is excellent for boosting the immune system and promoting good eyesight. It also contains fiber, making it an ideal choice to improve digestion while offering a refreshing sensation on hot days.

To enjoy it, simply pierce the skin slightly with your teeth, then suck the pulp around the seed. Quenette is often eaten as a snack but can also be used to make juices or original desserts.

What are the seasonal fruits in Guadeloupe?

Fruit	Consumption period
Pineapple	All year round
Banana	All year round
Guava	November to March
Mango	April to September
Papaya	October to December
Soursop	August to December
Passion fruit (Maracudja)	November to March
Sapodilla	May to July
Quenette	June to August
Rambutan	September
Chayote (Christophine)	September
Cinnamon apple	November to March
Sugarcane	February
Malacca apple	March
Sugar apple (Pomme cythère)	January
Sour apple (Pomme surette)	October
Cacao pod (Cabosse)	November
Vanilla	November

For an authentic experience, it is recommended to taste these fruits directly on the local markets. The Pointe-à-Pitre market, for example, is renowned for its colorful stalls and warm atmosphere. The markets of Sainte-Anne and Saint-François also offer a total immersion in Guadeloupean culture, with a variety of fresh fruits and artisanal products.

FAQ

What are the seasonal fruits in Guadeloupe ? Seasonal fruits vary throughout the year. For example, mango is generally available from May to September, while pineapple is present all year round with a production peak between December and May. It is recommended to visit local markets to discover the fruits available during your visit.

How to choose a ripe exotic fruit at the markets ? To select a ripe fruit, rely on its appearance and fragrance. A ripe fruit usually emits a pleasant smell, and its skin may show slight softness under finger pressure. Don’t hesitate to ask local vendors for advice; they will guide you in your choice.

What are the benefits of Guadeloupe’s exotic fruits ? Guadeloupe’s exotic fruits are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. For example, papaya is known for its digestive properties, while soursop has anti-inflammatory virtues. Regular consumption of these fruits contributes to a balanced and healthy diet.

Where can you buy exotic fruits besides markets ? Besides markets, you can find exotic fruits in supermarkets, local grocery stores, and directly from roadside producers. Some farmers also offer visits to their plantations, providing a unique opportunity to discover fruit cultivation and buy fresh fruits at the source.