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Lychees

Specialty

Description
About the size of a small plum or a small Ping-Pong ball, the lychee nut, pronounced "lee-chee", is usually about one to one-and one-half inches in diameter. Round, heart-shaped or oval, the brittle reddish-brown shell is inedible. The aromatic sticky flesh is translucent and pearly white. Sweet and juicy, the flavor is similar to a grape but is much more fragrant. When dried, lychees develop a chewy texture and a smoky taste.

Grow Region
California Hawaii Imported

Storage Temperature
Raw lychees are a tasty snack right out of the shell. Add to fruit salads, sweet and sour sauces or dessert sauces. A fruity complement to poultry and seafood dishes. Add their unique taste and texture to stir-fries. Serve over ice cream or on top of brandy-flavored whipped cream. Give its sweet flavor to salad dressings and gelatin molds. Add a gourmet touch to green salads, chicken, turkey or ham salad. Chill for best flavor. To store, lychees keep two weeks refrigerated and up to six months frozen. Freeze unpeeled lychees in freezer bags or containers. Shells may crack when frozen but flavor and texture are not affected. Thaw for easier peeling.

Availability

Seasons/Availability
Fresh lychees are available in June and July.

Nutritional Facts

Rich in vitamin C, lychees contain potassium and other nutrients. Low in calories, one lychee has about 7 calories.