Enter the Dragon

Don’t be fooled by its fiery looks – the dragon fruit is a cool and delicious delight

Words: Ariya Chaiyarit 
Photo & Style: Samatcha Apaisuwan

With spikes that look like flames and peel resembling a monster’s scales, it’s clear how dragon fruit earned its name. Its vivid pink, leathery exterior serves as a protective armour for the delicate, juicy flesh within.

Also called pitaya, this exotic fruit is known as Kaew Mangkorn in Thai. The most common variety boasts bright pink skin and white flesh dotted with tiny black seeds. The less common varieties have vibrant red flesh or white flash with yellow skins and are often sweeter than the common pink version.

The dragon fruit plant is a type of cactus which prized not only for its fruit but also its ornamental beauty. Its red berries contrast dramatically with thorny green stems, making it a striking addition to gardens.

Native to Central and South America, the dragon fruit was brought to Asia by the French in the early 19th century. Today it flourishes in tropical regions worldwide, with Vietnam, India and Ecuador being the top three exporters globally.

The fruit is typically enjoyed fresh, boasting a flavour profile somewhere between a sour kiwi, sweet pear and juicy watermelon. Just cut it in half lengthwise and scoop out its flesh, or peel off the skin and slice it into bite-sized pieces. Dragon fruit can also be added to salads and blended into smoothies.

Beyond its unique and luscious flavour, the dragon fruit comes packed with health benefits. High in fibre and antioxidants, it can help lower the risk of diabetes and cancer, strengthen the immune system, improve digestion and heart health, and slow signs of ageing. It also supports hair, bones, vision and pregnancy health.

However, like any food, moderation is the key. Overconsumption can cause diarrhoea, bloating, or spikes in blood sugar. Additionally, eating red-fleshed varieties may temporarily turn the urine pink or red – a harmless effect that disappears quickly.

In Thailand, this eye-catching pink fruit is widely available in markets and a must-try for visitors seeking exotic flavours and textures.