What is lychee and what are its benefits?

Lychee, lichee or litchi is a fruit of Asian origin —specifically from China, Malaysia, and Vietnam— that arrived in Mexico during the 19th century along with a group of Chinese migrants who came to the country to work on the railroads through temporary contracts. Since then, more than 100 years have passed, and today the fruit is harvested in 13 states, with Veracruz, Puebla, and Oaxaca leading its production.You can also read: Exotic ingredients in Mexican cuisine What does lychee taste like?The lychee is a fruit weighing only 15 grams, very sweet, with a hint of acidity that slightly resembles grape. On the outside, it looks very lush because it is reddish with a rough and bumpy skin, but it is easy to peel. Inside, it has white flesh and a large seed.It is recommended to eat fresh, but it is also made into jams, syrups, or canned, ice creams, and fresh drinks with lychee, since due to its sweetness, it does not require added sugar or other ingredients.Benefits of lycheeIn addition to its great flavor, lychee contains various chemicals that may help reduce swelling and muscle pain. It is also believed to stimulate the immune system and contains various antioxidants that improve the skin. Furthermore, it has been shown to reduce blood glucose levels, so it should be eaten in moderation, especially if one is undergoing diabetes control treatment or has poor nutrition.Therefore, it is recommended that if you live with diabetes or any other illness, you should ask your doctor if it is possible to consume lychee and in what quantity, as well as recommended times.  See more: These are the most exotic spices in the world  Rambutan or “hairy” lycheeThe rambutan is a fruit very similar to lychee, in color and flavor. However, the difference lies in its skin, which has protrusions that look like spines (which are not dangerous), hence it is called the “hairy lychee.” It is also of Asian origin, and another significant difference between lychee is the seed (or pit), as the rambutan's seed is poisonous, so it must be spit out quickly and not kept playing in the mouth. Sometimes the seed is attached to the fruit, while at other times, it comes off easily, which is why it is not recommended to give the whole fruit to minors; instead, it should be given already cut and with the seed removed to avoid any risk. The lychee pit should also not be kept in the mouth.The lychee is an exotic fruit that should be tried at least once in a lifetime. Before eating it, it is preferable to completely remove the seed, the same goes for rambutan. By Guadalupe CamachoContinue reading: 12 mango dessert recipes