How to Cut and Eat a Tamarillo: Simple Steps for Delicious Results

If you’ve ever found yourself standing in front of a tamarillo, wondering how to cut it without making a mess, you’re not alone. This unique, egg-shaped fruit may look a little intimidating at first, but once you know how to handle it, eating tamarillo can be as easy as pie—and just as delicious! 

Whether you’re planning to toss it into a salad, blend it into a smoothie, or simply enjoy it on its own, the process is straightforward once you get the hang of it.

Let me walk you through the simple steps to cut and eat a tamarillo so you can enjoy this tangy, sweet fruit in no time!

What is a Tamarillo?

Before we dive into cutting and eating tamarillo, let’s take a quick moment to talk about what this fruit actually is. Known as the “tree tomato,” the tamarillo is a member of the Solanaceae family (yes, the same family as tomatoes and potatoes!). It’s native to South America but is now grown in various parts of the world.

Tamarillos come in a range of colors—red, yellow, and even purple—and each type has its own flavor profile. Some varieties are sweeter, while others have a more tart, citrus-like tang. The fruit is packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, making it not only tasty but also a nutritious addition to your diet.

Now, let’s get down to the business of cutting and eating tamarillo.

Why Cut Tamarillos Properly?

So, why should you bother learning the proper way to cut a tamarillo? It’s simple—cutting a tamarillo correctly ensures that you get the most out of its flavor and texture. 

The skin of the tamarillo is edible, but it’s often bitter and tough, so most people choose to peel it before eating the juicy flesh. The proper cutting method also helps avoid waste and prevents the fruit from becoming mushy.

By following the right steps, you’ll preserve that tangy sweetness that makes tamarillos so special. So let’s jump in!

Step 1: Gather Your Tools

You don’t need much to get started—just a few kitchen essentials. Here’s what I recommend:

• Sharp paring knife: A small, sharp knife will give you better control while cutting and peeling.
• Cutting board: This is your base for safely slicing the tamarillo.
• Small bowl: If you plan to save any seeds for later use or want to catch the juice while cutting.
• Paper towels or a clean dishcloth: Tamarillos can be juicy, so these come in handy for wiping your hands and keeping things tidy.

Once you’ve gathered your tools, you’re ready to begin.

Step 2: Rinse and Trim the Tamarillo

First things first, rinse the tamarillo under cool water to remove any dirt or debris. Even though you’ll be peeling tamarillos, it’s a good practice to wash it first.

Next, slice off both ends of the tamarillo with your paring knife. This makes it easier to grip and ensures a flat surface to start your cuts. You’re now ready to tackle the skin.

Step 3: Peel the Skin Off the Tamarillo

The skin of a tamarillo is what gives this fruit its distinct flavor. While some people enjoy eating the skin, most prefer to remove it because of its bitter taste. So, how do you peel it?

There are a couple of methods, but the most popular one is the boiling water method. It’s fast and effective, and you’ll end up with a smooth, clean fruit in no time. Here’s how to do it:

The Boiling Water Method:

1. Bring a small pot of water to a boil. You only need enough water to submerge the tamarillo for a few seconds.
2. Score the tamarillo: With your knife, make a shallow “X” on the bottom of the tamarillo. This will help the skin loosen up.
3. Submerge the tamarillo in the boiling water for about 30 seconds. You’ll see the skin start to wrinkle and peel back.
4. Transfer the tamarillo to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
5. Peel the skin: After cooling down, the skin should come off easily with your fingers. The skin should slip off in large sections, leaving the soft, vibrant flesh behind.

The beauty of this method is that it doesn’t take long, and it really helps preserve the fruit’s texture. Plus, you’ll have the added benefit of not wasting any of the juicy goodness inside.

Step 4: Cut the Tamarillo

Now that the skin is off, it’s time to cut the tamarillo. Depending on how you plan to eat it, you’ll want to slice or dice it in a way that suits your needs.

• For slices: Hold the tamarillo upright, and use your paring knife to cut it into rings, similar to how you’d slice a tomato. The flesh should be firm yet juicy, and the seeds inside are completely edible.
• For chunks: Slice the tamarillo lengthwise into quarters, then cut each section into smaller chunks. This is perfect if you’re adding the fruit to a salad or mixing it into a salsa.

If you’re making a smoothie or a fruit salad, cutting the tamarillo into smaller pieces will help it blend easily and combine well with other ingredients.

Step 5: Enjoy Your Tamarillo!

And now for the best part—eating it!

The flesh of a tamarillo can vary in flavor depending on the variety. Red tamarillos tend to have a more tangy flavor with a slight sweetness, while yellow ones are typically milder and sweeter. You can enjoy tamarillos in many ways:

• Fresh: Just pop a few slices into your mouth for a refreshing snack.
• In a salad: Add diced tamarillo to a fruit or veggie salad for an extra burst of flavor.
• Smoothies: Blend tamarillo into your smoothie for a tropical twist.
• Salsa: Combine tamarillo with cilantro, lime, and tomatoes for a unique salsa.
• Jam or chutney: Cook tamarillo down into a jam or chutney for a tangy spread on toast.

No matter how you choose to eat it, tamarillo is a versatile and delicious fruit that’s perfect for experimenting in the kitchen.

Why You Should Try Tamarillos

Tamarillos aren’t just fun to cut and eat—they’re also packed with health benefits. These fruits are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, which make them a great addition to your diet. Whether you’re looking for a new fruit to incorporate into your smoothies or simply want to try something different, tamarillos should be on your radar.

Additionally, tamarillos are relatively low in calories but full of flavor, making them a fantastic option for those who want a healthy snack that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Tips for Cutting and Eating Tamarillos

1. Check for Ripeness: Tamarillos should be firm but give slightly to the touch. If they’re too soft, they may be overripe, and if they’re too hard, they may need more time to ripen.
2. Use the Right Knife: Tamarillo skin can be a bit slippery, so using a sharp, small paring knife will give you more control when cutting.
3. Don’t Forget the Seeds: Tamarillo seeds are completely edible and packed with nutrients. Don’t throw them away!
4. Store Tamarillos Properly: If you’re not using them immediately, store tamarillos in the fridge or on the counter until ripe. Once cut, you can store them in an airtight container for a few days.

Final Thoughts

Cutting and eating tamarillos doesn’t have to be intimidating. With a little practice and the right techniques, you can enjoy this exotic fruit with ease. Whether you’re slicing them for a salad or blending them into your favorite smoothie, tamarillos bring a tangy, refreshing flavor to any dish.

So, the next time you spot a tamarillo at the store or on your tree, you’ll know exactly what to do. Happy peeling, cutting, and eating!