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Longan
Longan is native to southern China and India and is a close relative of the rambutan and lychee. Chinese immigrants brought longan seeds into tropical north Queensland during the 1870s and many large trees still exist in the region from that era. One of the best examples is an old tree beside the Chinese Joss House in Innisfail. In Chinese medicine, longans are used to relieve stress, boost the immune system, enrich the blood and increase vigour. Longans are reputed to give good fortune to all who are lucky enough to enjoy them. Characteristics Longans are round to oval in shape, typically 2 cm to 3 cm in diameter, with a thin, leathery, golden brown skin. The pulp is translucent and contains a single, round, black, shiny seed. They are borne on hanging panicles as a large bunch of fruits. Individual trees can carry fruit weighing hundreds of kilograms. Taste Longans have a fresh, distinctive taste and can be used to ‘cut the palate’ like a sorbet. They are sweet and aromatic with musky overtones. Buying and Storing Choose fruits that are firm. To open longans, squeeze at the stalk end and the flesh should pop out. Fresh fruit can be wrapped in plastic and stored in a refrigerator for five to seven days and may be kept at room temperature for two or three days. They can also be frozen or dried Preparing and Serving Because they are easy to peel, longans make an unusual and quick addition to a salad. Add a bunch to a fruit platter for novelty and colour contrast. The delicious sweet juice, along with a slightly spicy aftertaste, make longans superb in combination with with ice cream. For something special, combine them with other fruit and a couple of tablespoons of Grand Marnier. The characteristic musky flavour of the longan also complements stir-fry and savoury foods. Availability February to March Varieties Biew Kiew, Kohala, Chompoo, Homestead. Acknowledgement The information about avocados is mainly sourced from the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries Queensland publication Tropical Tastes - Fruits, Foods and Flavours of North Queensland and is reproduced with due acknowledgement and authority.
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