Salak (Snake Fruit)

Snake fruit, more technically known as Salak or Salacca Zalacca is native to Indonesia. Snake fruits grow on short-trunked palm trees, sprouting off the base of the palm in little clusters. Though it is scaly and prickly, and may look tough, the skin is actually quite thin and can be easily peeled off by breaking the tip. The complex tropical flavor of snake fruit is often described as a blend of apple, pineapple, and banana. It has the sweetness of honey with an acidic finish, leaving a citrusy tingle on the tongue, and more sweet or sour depending on the variety.

Snake fruit is called the Fruit of Memory in Indonesia because it is rich in potassium and pectin, both important nutrients for brain health and development. It also contains nutrients like thiamine, iron, and calcium, as well as vitamin C. Snake fruit is gaining more popularity throughout the world.