Jambu Air
Jambu Air
A bell-shaped, water-rich fruit. Known as water apple or wax apple, offering an apple-like crisp texture.
'Jambu Air,' also known as rose apple, water apple, or wax apple, is a fruit where 'Air' means 'water' in Indonesian. True to its name, it's incredibly water-rich with a light, crisp, and slightly spongy texture. It has a charming bell shape and comes in various colors like red, pink, green, and white. Offering a subtle sweetness and refreshing tartness, it's perfect for quenching thirst on a hot day.
How to Eat and Characteristics
Jambu Air is typically eaten whole, skin and all, like an apple. The core and any small seeds inside are discarded. Its flavor is very mild and refreshing, often described as a cross between a pear and an apple. While not intensely sweet, its high water content and pleasant crispness are its main appeals. In Indonesia, it's common to eat it dipped in salt, Sambal (chili paste), or a sweet shrimp paste sauce to add a flavor contrast.
Star Ingredient in 'Rujak' Salad
Jambu Air is an essential component of 'Rujak,' an Indonesian fruit salad. Rujak features various fruits and sometimes vegetables tossed in a sweet, spicy, and tangy sauce made from chili, palm sugar, Tamarind, and shrimp paste. The crisp texture and mild flavor of Jambu Air pair wonderfully with the rich sauce, playing a crucial role in balancing the overall dish. Young, slightly sour Jambu Air is particularly prized for enhancing the flavor of Rujak.
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