When it comes to exotic fruits, soursop and custard apples are often mentioned in the same breath. They are known for their unique flavors and health benefits. However, while they may look similar at first glance and leave people confused, the two delicious options have distinct differences between them. So, the question is, what sets them apart?
Custard Apple: Creamy, Sweet, and Nutritious
Custard apple is a fruit known for its creamy texture and sweet flavor. It is round or heart-shaped, with bumpy green skin that turns brown as it ripens. One of the key features of the fruit is its white flesh, which is divided into segments. Each segment contains a shiny black seed, which is not edible.
The flesh has a custard-like consistency, hence the name ‘custard apple.’ It has a mild taste with hints of vanilla, pineapple, and banana.
Soursop: Exotic, Tangy, and Refreshing
Soursop is a large fruit with a spiky green exterior and a unique flavor profile. The flesh of the fruit is white and fibrous, with a tangy-sweet taste that is often described as a combination of pineapple and strawberry, with hints of citrus.
Key Differences Between Custard Apple and Soursop
Soursop vs Custard Apple: Appearance
Soursop is a large fruit with a green, spiky exterior and white, creamy flesh, with black seeds scattered throughout. On the other hand, a custard apple is a smaller fruit with a bumpy green exterior and a soft, custard-like flesh that ranges in color from white to light yellow.
Soursop vs Custard Apple: Taste and Texture
Both soursop and custard apples are known for their sweet and tropical flavors. Soursop has a fibrous texture and a tangy-sweet taste resembling a combination of pineapple, strawberry, and citrus. The flesh is juicy and fibrous, while the seeds are hard and inedible.
Custard apple has a creamy texture and a sweet, mild flavor with hints of pineapple, vanilla, and banana. The flesh is soft and creamy, similar to custard, and the seeds are also inedible.
Soursop vs Custard Apple: Nutrient Profile
Not only are soursop and custard apples delicious, but they also offer a range of health benefits. Soursop has been used in traditional medicine for its potential antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. It is believed to have immune-boosting effects, aid digestion, and promote healthy skin.
Custard apple is known to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It may help improve digestion, strengthen the immune system, and promote heart health. Both fruits are also believed to have anti-aging properties due to their high antioxidant content.
Custard apple are particularly high in vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber. Soursop is rich in vitamin C and has significant levels of vitamin B and calcium.
Soursop vs Custard Apple: Culinary Uses
Soursop is commonly used to make refreshing beverages, ice creams, and various culinary creations.
Custard apple is often consumed as a fresh fruit, added to smoothies, or used in desserts.
Which is better for you, soursop or custard apple?
This is a tough question. Your decision to choose between soursop and custard depends on your nutritional needs and taste.
If you prefer a fruit with a unique, tangy flavor, soursop is your best choice. If you are looking for a creamy texture and sweeter taste, custard apple is an excellent option.
Both fruits are great sources of vitamins and minerals and are highly nutritious.
Wrap up
Whether you prefer the tropical tang of soursop or the sweet creaminess of custard apples, these fruits are sure to delight your taste buds and provide a healthy dose of nutrition.
At Frutunda, we offer certified, high-quality custard apple and soursop seedlings to help you get started. We also offer agronomy support to help you do everything from seedling selection to planting to harvesting. Contact us today!
Phone: +254710588060
What'sApp: https://wa.me/254710588060