Star Fruit (Carambola) with Chocolate and Pistachio: A Healthy and Unexpected Dessert
Do you know the fruit Carambola (Star fruit)?
You may have seen this fruit as a garnish in salads, but if you have never tried this tropical fruit, you are missing out on a unique flavor. An ingenious idea to eat carambola with a touch of chocolate. Sweet, acid, and above all with a lot of nutrition. A perfect dessert for the whole family.
It all started with my GIANT Carambola/Star Fruit trees. I have 2 trees in my yard and I had no idea what to do with so much fruit. As you may well know, I am originally from the border of Cd. Juárez and El Paso, Texas. As a good girl from the Chihuahuan desert, I did not know of its existence until I moved to Miami. Now, I have this fruit in quantities and I didn't know what to do with it, until now!
The fruit is very light, with a crunchy consistency and super refreshing. Imagine a sweet and semi-sour cucumber. My daughter Emma Lucia is a lover of its flavor and texture. She is also fascinated by its star shape.
Native to East Asia, carambola grows in tropical locations. It is high in vitamin C, potassium and a lot of fiber. A medium fruit provides only 35 calories, 6 grams of carbohydrates, 3 of which are dietary fiber. Very suitable for children with diabetes or families looking for low-carb desserts.
This idea is super easy and simple. It takes me less than 20 minutes to prepare. Here I leave this original dessert to share.
Star Fruit with Chocolate and Pistachio
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips 60% cacao (or chocolate of choice)
- 2-3 carambola (star fruit)
- 1/4 cup of crushed pistachios
- Shredded coconut (Optional)
- Heat the chocolate chips over low heat, making sure you don't burn the chocolate. I used the microwave and heated it for 30 seconds, making sure to beat well so it doesn't burn.
- Cut the fruit into small pieces. Place wax paper in a bowl or plate to accommodate the fruit.
- Once the chocolate is melted, grab the fruit and cover half with chocolate. Shake off excess chocolate and place on top of wax paper lined plate.
- Finally, sprinkle with pistachios and grated coconut (optional). Let cool for 30 minutes until the chocolate hardens.
An ingenious idea to eat carambola with a touch of sweet but healthy. Perfect for the whole family, especially your children!