
Longan
Longan, also known as 'dragon eye', is a small, round tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia. Related to lychee and rambutan, longans have a thin, brownish shell that is easily peeled to reveal a translucent, whitish pulp surrounding a single, shiny black seed, resembling an eye. The flesh is juicy and has a sweet, slightly musky flavor, making it a delicious and exotic addition to both sweet and savory dishes. When you are looking for exotic fruits, longan is easy to eat, and incredibly satisfying.
Common Uses
- Enjoyed fresh as a snack: Longan can be eaten straight out of hand, providing a refreshing and sweet treat.- Used in desserts: The sweet flavor of longan makes it a great addition to desserts like puddings, ice cream, and fruit salads, adding a unique tropical twist.- Added to beverages: Longan is often used to flavor drinks such as teas, juices, and cocktails, lending its distinct sweetness.- Incorporated into savory dishes: In some Southeast Asian cuisines, longan is added to savory dishes like stir-fries and curries, providing a subtle sweetness and textural contrast.- Used in soups and stews: Longan can be used to add a sweet, unique flavor to soups and stews, particularly in Chinese cuisine.- Dried and used as a snack or in herbal remedies: Dried longan is a popular snack and is also used in traditional Chinese medicine for its purported health benefits.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
60.0kcal (3%)
Protein
1.3g (2.62%)
Carbs
15.1g (5.51%)
Sugars
15.1g (30.28%)
Healthy Fat
0.0g
Unhealthy Fat
0.0g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
60.0kcal (3%)
Protein
1.3g (2.62%)
Carbs
15.1g (5.51%)
Sugars
15.1g (30.28%)
Healthy Fat
0.0g
Unhealthy Fat
0.0g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Health Benefits
- Supports immune health due to its vitamin C content.
- May improve sleep quality with its calming properties.
- Rich in antioxidants, fighting free radical damage.
- Contributes to skin health by promoting collagen production.
- Good source of iron, aiding in red blood cell formation.
- May boost energy levels thanks to its carbohydrate content.
Storage Tips
Fresh longan is best stored in the refrigerator to extend its shelf life. Place them in a plastic bag or airtight container to prevent them from drying out. They typically last for about 1-2 weeks when refrigerated. Dried longan can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container, away from direct sunlight and moisture, for several months.
Chefadora AI is Here.
Experience smarter, stress-free cooking.
Marnirni-apinthi Building, Lot Fourteen,
North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia