The genipap is an aromatic fruit pulp widely used in food. It serves as raw material for jams, sweets, syrups, teas and liqueurs. Added to this diversity of use in the kitchen, its fruits are rich in fiber and iron, which also gives it the status of a natural remedy.
Among its main health benefits are fighting anemia and aiding in good intestinal functioning. However, it is his role in controlling the discomforts experienced by pregnant women that put him in the spotlight.
In addition to those already mentioned, genipap has other advantages for the body. Learn more about its effects and how best to enjoy them. Enjoy and learn how to make the juice, liqueur and sweet from this fruit.
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Benefits of genipap
According to nutritionist Angélica Grecco, the fruit brings many benefits to health as it is rich in iron, calcium, vitamins B1, B2, B5 and C. It also has fiber, phosphorus and proteins. The main advantages of its consumption are:
- It helps in the treatment of rheumatism.
- Prevents and controls anemia: the fruit is rich in iron, one of the essential nutrients to keep red blood cells healthy.
- It favors the proper functioning of the intestine: the tea from the plant is laxative and fights stomach problems.
- Improves digestion and stimulates appetite.
- Treats respiratory diseases: genipap syrup is widespread and used for bronchitis, asthma and flu.
- It acts as an aphrodisiac: the genipap juice stimulates the libido in both men and women.
All parts of genipapo can be enjoyed. The root is used to make a laxative tea . The bark fights ulcers. The seeds, on the other hand, are used to make juices that help fight stomach problems.
Ally of pregnant women
In addition to all this performance in the body, genipap is also indicated for pregnant women who usually feel a lot of nausea and vomiting. The genipap juice can be taken by the pregnant woman every two hours, and it also helps to keep the nervous system more stable.
Do you lose weight?
According to the nutritionist, genipap is not indicated for weight loss. A 100-gram serving of it contains 113 calories, which is considered caloric. Anyone who wants to lose weight should consume the fruit sparingly.
In contrast, it is ideal for children who need to gain weight. Being caloric, it stimulates the appetite and gives energy to the body.
How to use in cooking
The ripe fruit has a strong aroma and a sweet and acidic flavor, which is great for preparing jams, sweets, ice cream, soft drinks and, especially, in the production of a liqueur, very appreciated in the North and Northeast of Brazil.
With the fruit you can also make wine, through fermentation, and from the flowers you can extract an aromatic oil.
1. Genipap candy
Ingredients
- 2 to 5 genipap fruits
- 2 kg of crystal sugar
- 1 liter of water
- Clove and cinnamon to taste.
Preparation mode
First prepare the genipap: peel it, remove the seeds, wash it well and cut it into strips. Then, in a pan, place the fruits with ½ liter of water and wait for it to boil. Drain the water and place the remaining water and sugar with the genipap. Cook over medium heat until thickened. Add the cinnamon and cloves and you’re done.
2. Genipap juice
Ingredients
- 1 genipap
- 250 ml of water
- Sugar or sweetener.
Preparation mode
Wash the genipap, remove the pits and cut into pieces. Put all ingredients in a blender, until smooth. Strain and serve with ice cubes.
3. Genipap liquor
Ingredients
- 4 genipaps
- 1 liter of water
- 1 kg of crystal sugar
- ½ liter of cachaça.
Preparation mode
1st step: wash the genipap, cut them in half. Place them in a jar and let them soak in the cachaça for 10 days.
2nd step: mix sugar and water over high heat until it forms a thick syrup. Remove from heat and wait for it to cool.
3rd step: take the genipap that was soaked in the cachaça and pour it over the syrup, squeezing the fruit with your hand. Strain the drink into a flannel or paper strainer. Repeat until the liquid is very clear.
4th step: store in glass bottle.
Fruit characteristics
Originating from a tree native to South and Central America, the genipap resists drought and adapts well to different types of soil and temperatures. In Brazil, it is common in the Northeast region.
The jenipapeiro (Genipa americana) is leafy and has a rounded crown, very fragrant white-yellow flowers, its fruits are large, brown, globe-shaped, with a sweet pulp and flat seeds. And they can only be harvested when ripe.
Curiosity
In Tupi-Guarani, Jenipapo means “fruit that can be used to paint”. Brazilian Indians use it to paint their bodies and objects in religious ceremonies and rituals.
My name is Ellie Lauderdale, MD and I am USA based professional Nutritionist .
I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and board certified specialist in sports dietetics who is trained in integrative medicine. I have worked with hundreds of clients, from those suffering with chronic disease to professional and olympian athletes. My goal is to help optimize you from the inside so that you can feel, perform, and look your best on the outside.