The Curious Cook...considers Rambutan

It is often the case in the Dean & Deluca produce section that I’ll encounter things I’ve never seen before. On a recent visit to the gourmet food store I stumbled upon what appeared to be a careless mistake in the fruit section. In the top shelf of the refrigerator, above the diced watermelon and strawberries were a great many curious looking brown spiny objects. Labeled “Rambutan” the strange fruit might easily have snuck in from the seafood section, or else a science fiction movie.

The rambutan is in fact a fruit imported from Asia and very similar to the better-known lychee, though its taste is best compared to a very sweet and mild grapefruit. Its outside is covered in coarse, brown spines that resemble tough grass. If you are brave enough to overcome the prickly aesthetic, bite - but do not swallow - the outer layer of the rambutan. Peel it back to reveal the translucent and jelly-like flesh of the fruit. Enjoy the light, refreshing taste - just be careful to avoid the almond shaped pit within.
Many adventurous eaters will love encountering this fruit in person, even if they buy it mostly to scare neighborhood children.

Enjoy and be curious !