To Buy:
When choosing custard apples they are best bought when hard to avoid bruising and loss of quality in transport.
Similar to an avocado, custard apples ripen at room temperature.
When ripe, the skin can turn a dull green or on occasions, appear yellow.
To Store:
To fast track the ripening process, place the fruit in a brown paper bag with a banana and leave at room temperature.
Shelf life of custard apples is short, so buy small quantities more frequently.
The ideal temperature to ripen custard apples is between 18 and 24 degrees Celsius (fruit will not ripen below 14 degrees).
During winter store fruit in a warm area and cover to retain warmth.
Sliced fruit or pulp can be refrigerated for up to 5 days, keep in an airtight container to prevent browning.
Tips & Tricks:
Custard apples contain protein, fibre, minerals, vitamins, energy and very little fat. They are also an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, magnesium, and potassium with some B2 and complex carbohydrates.
Cooking Tips:
Scoop out the flesh and mix with any of the following: cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon, orange, honey and vanilla.
A delicious food for toddlers.