Fruits in Canary Islands

Introduction

The Canary Islands are an archipelago located off the northwest coast of Africa, known for their subtropical climate and diverse landscapes. As such, the islands are home to a wide variety of fruit, many of which are native to the region. In this article, we will explore some of the most popular and interesting fruits found in the Canary Islands.

The most iconic fruits

One of the most iconic fruits of the Canary Islands is the banana. The region is home to a number of banana plantations, and the fruit is a staple in the local diet. Canary Islands bananas are known for their sweet taste and soft, creamy texture. They are often eaten fresh, but can also be used in a variety of dishes, such as smoothies, cakes, and even savory sauces.
Another popular fruit in the Canary Islands is the avocado. The region has a long history of avocado cultivation, and the fruit is used in a variety of dishes, including salads, sandwiches, and dips. Avocados are a good source of healthy fats and are often used as a substitute for mayonnaise or other spreads.
Papayas are another common fruit in the Canary Islands. These tropical fruits are native to the region and are often eaten fresh or used in salads and smoothies. They are rich in nutrients, including vitamin C and potassium, and are known for their sweet, juicy flavor.
Pineapples are also grown in the Canary Islands and are a popular addition to many dishes, including fruit salads, cocktails, and grilled meats. They are a good source of vitamin C and are known for their sweet and tropical flavor.
One of the most unique fruits found in the Canary Islands is the dragon fruit. This exotic fruit is native to Central and South America, but has been introduced to the islands and is now widely cultivated there. Dragon fruit is known for its bright pink or yellow skin and sweet, juicy flesh. It is often eaten fresh or used in smoothies and other dishes.

In addition to these popular fruits, the Canary Islands are home to a number of other tropical and subtropical fruits, including mangoes, coconuts, kiwis, and guavas. The region's warm and sunny climate makes it an ideal location for growing a wide variety of fruit, and it is an important part of the local agriculture industry.
Canary Islands are a paradise for fruit lovers, with a wide variety of delicious and exotic options to choose from. Whether you're looking for sweet and tropical flavors or more savory and nutritious options, there is something for everyone on these beautiful islands.

Here are some easy recipes with the most common fruits of this land!

Banana Bread Recipe (Metric) Ingredients:

• 225g all-purpose flour
• 5g baking powder
• 2.5g baking soda
• 1.25g salt
• 113g unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 200g granulated sugar
• 2 eggs
• 5ml vanilla extract
• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 75g chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and grease a 23x13cm loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, and mix well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and mashed bananas.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, mixing just until combined.
6. Fold in the chopped nuts, if using.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top.
8. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Let cool for 10 minutes before removing from pan, then let it cool down completely before serving. Enjoy your delicious homemade banana bread! You can also add chocolate chips, or any other fruits or nuts to taste.

Avocado and Tomato Toast (Metric units)

• 2 slices of whole grain bread (approx. 70g per slice)
• 1 avocado (approx. 200g)
• salt
• pepper
• pepper flakes (optional)
• garlic powder (optional)
• 2 medium-sized tomatoes (approx. 300g), diced
• 30ml of olive oil
• 5ml of fresh lemon juice

1. Toast the bread to your desired level of doneness.
2. In a small bowl, mash the avocado with a fork and season it with salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and garlic powder.
3. Spread the avocado mixture on the toast slices.
4. Top the toast with diced tomatoes.
5. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil and lemon juice. Drizzle it over the toast.
6. Enjoy!

Papaya Salsa

• 1 papaya (approx. 600g), peeled and diced
• 1 red bell pepper (approx. 150g), diced
• 1 red onion (approx. 100g), diced
• 1 jalapeño pepper (approx. 20g), seeded and minced (optional)
• 30ml fresh lime juice
• 15ml honey
• 5ml olive oil
• salt
• black pepper
• ground cumin (optional)

1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the diced papaya, bell pepper, red onion, and jalapeño pepper.
2. In a separate small bowl, mix together the lime juice, honey, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and cumin (if using).
3. Pour the dressing over the papaya mixture and toss gently to combine.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Allow the salsa to sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve chilled as a side dish or as a topping for grilled fish, chicken or pork.

Note: Papaya Salsa could be also be great with crackers or as a dip. Feel free to adjust the amount of jalapeño pepper to taste.

by Flavio de Stefano

Image by Freepiks