In the classic novel “Journey to the West,” the ginseng fruit from Wuzhuang Temple on Mount Wanshou is considered magical, blooming once every three thousand years and bearing fruit once every three thousand years. Eating one can grant immortality, and the gluttonous Zhu Bajie couldn’t wait to swallow it whole. However, in the real world, while there is no such miraculous fruit that grants eternal life, there is a fruit also called ginseng fruit that possesses unique charm.

The real ginseng fruit, also known as the fragrant melon eggplant, belongs to the nightshade family. Its origin is in the Andes Mountains of South America. In the 1970s, New Zealand was the first to introduce it for commercial cultivation. Since then, it has settled in some regions of China, with Shilin County in Yunnan becoming the largest ginseng fruit cultivation base in the country due to its suitable environment. Unlike the long growth cycle in mythology, the real ginseng fruit can flower and bear fruit about five months after planting, and by October, we can taste the freshly picked fruit.

This ginseng fruit weighs about 80 grams, and when ripe, it presents a rice yellow or cream color with beautiful purple stripes, and its shape varies. Its skin is very thin, but the flesh is quite thick. A bite releases fragrant juice that bursts in the mouth, and it has no seeds, with an edible rate exceeding 90%. Its water content often exceeds 90%, making it particularly refreshing.

In terms of nutrition, ginseng fruit is rich in various vitamins and minerals. The vitamin C content varies significantly by variety, with the “Shiyou No. 3” variety having a vitamin C content comparable to that of kiwifruit. Its potassium content averages about 140 mg/100g, making it a high-potassium, low-sodium fruit, which is a good choice for those needing to control blood pressure. Additionally, it contains antioxidant components such as phenols and flavonoids. Although its calorie content is not low, most literature indicates that it is a low-calorie, low-fat, and low-sugar fruit, making it safe for those on a weight loss diet to enjoy.

The ripeness of the ginseng fruit greatly affects its taste. Ripe fruits have a rich aroma and a sweet, refreshing taste. To determine its ripeness, you can simply look at its appearance: a seven-tenths ripe fruit is white with purple stripes and has a poor taste; fully ripe fruits are golden yellow with purple stripes. Due to its thin skin, it is recommended to buy a small amount at a time and store it in a cool, ventilated place. When eating, choose the golden and soft ones first.