Asia is a diverse continent that spans massive land mass across oceans, climates and a rich diversity of cultures. Experience a culinary fiesta of colours, tastes and textures. Importantly, these are flavourful goodness that will certainly give you a health and beauty boost too!. Check them out for yourself!

Bird’s nest

Often referred to as the elixir of life or fountain of youth, bird’s nest is not really vegan as it is made from swiftlets’ saliva. It is considered a premium delicacy for the Chinese. Research shows that these contain important amino acids which aid body metabolism and aid the production of growth hormones and cell regeneration for youthful skin. Bird’s nest is available in dried form and can be double-boiled as a healthy delicacy.

Durian

Another “royalty” in the world of fruits, the prickly, thorny durian is infamous for its strong smell. Yet its creamy flesh and strong taste are said to be “to die for”. It is a favourite amongst raw food aficionados for its high nutritional value which includes iron, potassium and B vitamins as well as high fibre. It also contains an amino acid called tryptophan which helps to produce a neurotransmitter called serotonin that promotes a sense of well-being. Durian is often consumed fresh, but with modern technology, it can be found frozen or added into a variety of cookies, cakes, sweets and even coffee!

Buddha’s Hand

With a name like this, this unusual-sounding fruit from China and India[2] is from the citron family and named as such due to this long, thin sections which resemble a human hand. Usually available as a dried fruit with medicinal effects, it Is not very juicy. It is said to soothe gastrointestinal problems, alleviate pain, boost immune system, ease menstrual and respiratory problems and reduce inflammation.

Jackfruit

Said to be the world’s largest tree fruit, you cannot eat an entire jackfruit as one fruit may weigh up to 80 pounds. Often sold fresh in supermarkets and fruit stalls or available as dried fruit chips, jackfruit is rich in manganese, copper, potassium, fibre and Vitamin C. It is a natural prebiotic, essential for healthy bacterial growth in the digestive tract.

Dragon fruit

Another unique sounding comes from dragon fruit, which is easily found in Malaysia, Vietnam and Thailand. This bright pink-coloured fruit has this mystical name due to its dragon-like scales that are soft and not prickly at all. It is a powerhouse of nutrition with carotenoids, potassium, fibre and Vitamin C. The taste is truly refreshing with either red or white fleshy inner part interspersed with black seeds. The best way to enjoy dragon fruit is to bite into the juicy flesh or blend with your favourite shakes or even as a sweet juice. Dragon fruit is a popular favourite with vegans as it is full of antioxidants, is low in calories and contains zero cholesterol.

Rambutan

This soft, hairy fruit with red skin has white, juicy flesh clinging onto a hard seed. Available in South East Asia, it is a popular source of calcium, magnesium, vitamins A and C, zinc, iron, copper and protein. Rambutan is often consumed fresh and is said to be able to fight bacterial infections while stimulating the production of white and red blood cells.

Edamame

Most people love Japanese food. Edamame is from the soybean friendly and is often eaten steamed. It is also available frozen from supermarkets or in some countries, in convenience stores. You will love the fresh taste of this bean. Importantly, it is rich in fibre, antioxidants, isoflavone and protein.

Goji Berry

We’ve mentioned this before but we just have to add goji berry onto this list. Another name for wolfberry, goji berry is native to China and is a pint-sized superfood that is packed full of Vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, zinc, fibre, amino acids and antioxidants. It is very affordable and is easily available in dried form. The health benefits include the treatment and prevention of stress, weight gain, liver problems, high blood sugar, influenza, digestion issues, mood swings, skin problems, eye problems and weight gain. For a fruit that is smaller than the size of a finger nail, goji berry is an amazing superfood powerhouse.

Come and find out the local exotic superfood exporter/importer and traders at Superfood Asia 2019, which will be held from 24th to 26th April 2019 in Singapore. Kick off your journey to great health!