Enjoying the pitaya

Thanks to my new life here in French Guiana, I've had the unique opportunity to open my palate and experience tropical fruit that I'd never heard of before back in France. After the ramboutan, the pitaya-- also called the dragon fruit-- is definitely one of my favorites. (Click on photos to enlarge.)

The pitaya actually grows on a cactus like plant which blooms at night. Unfortunately, this fruit doesn't travel very well so you might be disappointed if you buy one in an Asian supermarket somewhere in Europe or the United States.

Here's a closer look at one we bought at the market today and that is produced locally. Thanks, Jack, for showing off the merchandise!

We can buy two varieties of pitaya here, red or white. We find the red fruit somewhat sweeter and more pleasing than the white variety although some people say just the opposite. At any rate, the two varieties do not have the same flavor.

Eating a pitaya is really simple. Store it in the refrigerator so it will have a refreshing chilled taste. Then cut it in half and eat it like a kiwi.

This one is full of sweet juice...

The pitaya is definitely a refreshing moment in the heat of the Guianese dry season!