Lucuma Overview Lucuma is a tropical fruit that is green in color on the outside and orange in color inside similar to a persimmon. This fruit has a sweet fragrance and surprising, pleasing flavor that has often been compared to caramel, pumpkin, and maple. While the fruit is commonly found in South American markets, we see it mostly in powder form in the United States.
Lucuma is native to the coastal highlands and valleys of Peru. Sometimes referred to as the “Gold of the Incas,” lucuma is a popular ingredient in many Peruvian desserts. In Peruvian culture, it is used as a versatile sweetener and it is the most popular flavor of ice cream.
In addition to being used in ice cream, Lucuma is often used in dessert dishes because of its mild sweetness and slight maple flavor. It can be in cakes, puddings, flan, and cookies, or it can be added to smoothies, hot cereals, and drinks for a subtle power-food boost.
Lucuma powder delivers an abundance of healthy benefits when added to your favorite food or beverage. Lucuma is gluten-free, a source of antioxidant, fiber, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and has a low glycemic index. Lucuma, which is considered a natural sweetener, is indicated to be a safe alternative for diabetics because it has a low glycemic index of 25. It can also help prevent postprandial hyperglycemia, which suggests that it can potentially aid in diabetes control. Studies have shown that lucuma can also help control blood pressure and prevent coronary heart disease as well as cancer. Lucuma is high in antioxidant-rich, free-radical scavengers called flavonoids, which help prevent these diseases from occurring. Lucuma has an impressive anti-inflammatory effect on wound healing and skin aging. The fatty acids present in lucuma increase wound closure as well as promote tissue regeneration.
Recipes using Lucuma:
Lucuma Pumpkin Spiced Smoothie
