Towards the end of June to September every year, a special fruit captures the attention of the people in Vietnam. This fruit has a round shape, a rough skin, and when ripe, reveals a sweet and fragrant white flesh that has everyone hooked. By now, many of you might have guessed that we’re talking about the custard apple, or na in Vietnamese.
The custard apple, also known as the bullock’s heart, is a round, large fruit with many seeds. When ripe, it boasts a white flesh and a sweet, delicate flavor. This tropical fruit is native to the Americas but is now cultivated worldwide, including in Vietnam. With the custard apple season in full swing, you’ll find an abundance of these fragrant fruits at local markets and even online.
In Vietnam, there are two main types of custard apples: the fibrous custard apple and the soft custard apple. True to their names, the fibrous custard apple has a firm, chewy texture, a sweet and subtle flavor, and a distinctive aroma. It is favored for its pleasant taste and ease of storage. On the other hand, the soft custard apple has a softer, more tender flesh, and a richer, sweeter taste.
Fibrous Custard Apple (right) – Soft Custard Apple (left)
Once Neglected, Now Coveted: Despite High Prices, Demand Remains Strong
With the arrival of the custard apple season, social media platforms are abuzz with debates between fans of the fibrous and soft varieties. Many people prefer the fibrous type and assume it would be more expensive. In reality, the market price for fibrous custard apples is quite reasonable, ranging from 25,000 to 45,000 VND per kg. However, the soft custard apple commands a much higher price, selling for up to 200,000 VND per kg, and yet it’s still in high demand. The soft custard apple with 6-8 fruits per kg is priced at 90,000-110,000 VND per kg; the medium-sized variety with 4-5 fruits per kg goes for 140,000-160,000 VND per kg; and the VIP variety, featuring larger and more attractive fruits, costs 180,000-200,000 VND per kg.
Soft Custard Apple from Lien Khe, Hai Phong (Photo: btmhuyen8586)
In the past, the soft custard apple didn’t receive much attention, but now it’s highly sought-after. Even with its current high price, it’s more expensive than durian and some other imported luxury fruits. The soft custard apple is loved for its sweet and delicate flesh, and the fact that it’s mainly grown in gardens means supply can’t keep up with demand. Customers often have to place orders a month in advance, which contributes to its high price.
Not Just Delicious, Custard Apples Are a True “Health Superfood”
Whether it’s the fibrous or soft variety, custard apples are a beloved fruit in Vietnam. They can be enjoyed fresh or used in desserts and smoothies. Moreover, custard apples are a “superfood” packed with nutritional benefits, which is why they’re so popular during their season.
Custard apples are a rich source of natural vitamin C and contain essential nutrients such as antioxidants and minerals that boost immunity, promote healthy skin, and enhance overall well-being. Regular consumption of custard apples also supports heart health by reducing bad cholesterol levels in the body. If you’re dealing with a sore throat or an upset stomach, try eating a custard apple to alleviate these uncomfortable symptoms.
A medium-sized custard apple provides about one-fifth of the daily recommended intake of vitamin C, making it a safe and abundant source of this essential nutrient.
Additionally, custard apples help improve heart function thanks to the balance of sodium and potassium in their flesh. The high antioxidant content combats harmful free radicals and cholesterol in the body. Vitamin B6 in custard apples regulates the neurotransmitter GABA, reducing stress and calming the nerves.
Custard apples are also rich in dietary fiber, which benefits the digestive system. They have a positive impact on skin health, oral health, fatigue reduction, lung health, and can even alleviate leg numbness.
