Velvet Apple – Velvety Skin, Fragrant Pale Flesh

Velvet Apple (Diospyros blancoi), also known as Mabolo, is an unusual tropical relative of the persimmon. Its rounded fruit has copper-red to reddish-brown skin covered in fine, velvety hairs. Beneath the peel is pale cream flesh with a mild sweetness and a distinctive aroma.

Why You'll Like Velvet Apple:

A Different Texture:
The flesh is dense and finely grained, sometimes soft and mealy when ripe. Expect a less juicy bite than a typical apple, with texture and sweetness varying naturally between fruits.

Mild, Fragrant Flavour:
Its gentle sweetness is often compared to apple and banana. The skin can have a strong, cheese-like smell; peeling and chilling the flesh makes the aroma milder.

Choose Your Quantity:
Available as 1 fruit (approximately 250 g), or in 1 kg and 2 kg packs. Single-fruit weights vary naturally. Pack weights refer to whole fruit, including peel and seeds.

Perfect Ripeness Guide:
Enjoy when the fruit has developed its reddish-brown colour, a noticeable aroma and a little give under gentle pressure. If still firm on arrival, leave at indoor room temperature away from direct sunlight and check daily. Do not rely on colour alone.

How to Eat:
Wash the fruit, gently rub away loose surface fuzz and peel off the skin. Cut the flesh into slices and remove any hard brown seeds. Discard the peel and seeds. The fine hairs can irritate the mouth, so enjoy only the peeled flesh. Serve chilled, on its own or with a squeeze of lime.

Storage:
Refrigerate once ripe and enjoy promptly. Keep peeled or cut fruit in a covered container in the fridge.