Vietnamese Rose Apples: A Hidden Gem You Need to Try

What is Vietnamese rose apple?

Overview

Vietnamese name: mận hồng đào

Shape and appearance: Shaped like a cone or bell, this fruit has smooth, glossy red skin. Inside, the flesh is crisp and juicy, with a white, spongy texture.

Flavor profile: Sweet with a hint of tartness and a delightfully crisp texture, making it a refreshing treat, especially on a hot day!

How to enjoy it: Eat fresh by slicing it into quarters lengthwise or biting into the whole fruit. Just avoid the base! It’s also great in fruit salads or enjoyed as a crunchy snack.

Harvest season: Grown primarily in the central and southern regions of Vietnam, you’ll find this fruit available for most of the year.

Shape and color

Vietnamese rose apples come in a range of colors, from light pink to deep red, with smooth, glossy skin. They are shaped like a cone or a bell, measuring between 5 to 20 cm in height and 5 to 10 cm in diameter, depending on the variety. Inside, the fruit reveals a white, spongy flesh that resembles a pear and is juicy like watermelon. Typically, there are one or two seeds in the center, although some varieties are seedless.

Rose apple trees can grow to a height of 5 to 15 meters, with lush, green foliage year-round. In Vietnam, they are often planted in home gardens, providing shade and delicious fruit. From flowering to ripening, the process takes about two months.

Taste and flavor

Even though it’s called a rose apple, the flavor of the Vietnamese rose apple is nothing like that of an actual apple. It’s sweet with a hint of light tartness, and the texture is delightfully crisp. Perfectly refreshing, it’s a fantastic treat on a hot day!

How to enjoy Vietnamese rose apples

Enjoying the Vietnamese rose apple is easy! You can bite right into the fruit and enjoy the juicy flesh. Just remember not to eat the seeds, as they are not meant to be consumed. If you like, you can slice it into quarters lengthwise. Just be sure to avoid the base, as it can be a bit tough. The rose apple is also delicious in fruit salads, adding a nice crunch. No matter how you eat it, you’re sure to love this tasty fruit!