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Loquat (Lu ju)
(Loquat, Japanese Plum, Chinese Plum, Pipa, Níspero, Nêspera, Nespolo, Pi pa, 蘆橘, 枇杷, びわ)
Loquat is a large evergreen shrub or a small tree that’s native to southeastern China, but the tree was also introduced to Japan in early medieval ages. The fruits are round, oval, or pear-shaped, with flesh that is subacid to sweet in flavor and very aromatic.
When ripe, loquats are enjoyed fresh or used in fruit salads. They can be pickled, stewed for desserts, preserved with spices, and made into chutneys and sauces. Due to its high pectin content, loquat is often made into jellies or jams. The fruits are also sometimes fermented in order to produce fruit wine.
They are low in calories and provide a nice source of potassium, copper, fiber, and vitamin A.
