Lucuma is an ancient fruit that is highly valued by the Incas and other indigenous communities. It holds a significant history and culture of the Andean Civilization and was considered a symbol of fertility, longevity, and sweet nourishment. It is also called lucmo, lucumo, and lucma in different countries such as Peru, Ecuador, and Chili. Lucuma tree ranges in height between 25 to 50 ft (7-15 m) and produces big white blossoms, it bears rounded or irregular oval-shaped fruits have a thin green skin, similar to an avocado. The fruit has a diverse appearance, from green and yellow skin to bright orange flesh. Prized by ancient civilizations of Peru, lucuma is often called the “gold of the Incas.” Lucuma fruits have a taste similar to a combination of maple syrup, caramel, and sweet potato, the dried form tastes like a blend of apricots and dried goji berry. It sounds yummy by the description of it.
Lucuma is a nutrient-dense fruit that offers a wide range of essential vitamins and minerals. It is an excellent source of potassium, which supports heart health and regulates blood pressure. It also contains calcium, iron, zinc, and B vitamins. Lucuma is often sold as a powder made from dried and starchy yellow-orange fruit, it is known to offer a sweet taste but without a concentrated amount of sugar content, which provides a healthier choice as a whole food-based sweetener, due to its low glycemic index, it is often recommended to those with type 2 diabetes.