Pitaya, also known as Pitahaya or Dragon Fruit, is an exotic fruit derived from the pitaya cactus, which is named Hylocereus. They are called Dragon Fruit, Fire Dragon Fruit, Dragon Pearl Fruit or Dragon Chrystal for their intense shape and vibrant red and green colors that make them seem as though they are on fire.
Dragon Fruits are watery and their taste is refreshingly light sweet. They are cut in two and their interior, together with a red pulp and crunchy black seeds, is consumed with a spoon. The pitaya's juice can be added to fruit juices or cocktails. The fruit can also be dried and eaten as a snack.
Pitayas originated in eastern Asia, in countries such as China, Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia. Red Pitaya Fruit blooms only at night and only a handful of times a year, with beautifully colored huge fragrant blooms.
Diabetics can eat pitahaya, which is low on sugar and rich on fiber, as a substitute for rice. The fruit's nutritional benefits are also Vitamin C and minerals.
