12 Tasty and Unique Fruits That Start with U: Ugli Fruit, Ugni, Uvilla, and More

Understanding Fruits That Start With U

There are a surprising number of delicious and healthy fruits that begin with the letter U. However, many of these fruits may be less common or unfamiliar to the average person compared to fruits like apples, oranges and bananas.

Unique and Underappreciated

Fruits starting with U are often unique in appearance, flavor and origin. You may have to visit specialty grocery stores or ethnic markets to find some of these exotic and underappreciated fruits. Trying new fruits introduces variety into your diet and gives you the chance to discover new favorites.

Nutritional Benefits

Like most fruits, these U fruits provide a range of important vitamins, minerals and plant compounds that offer health benefits. They can help boost immunity, reduce inflammation, promote heart health, improve digestion and more.

12 Fruits That Start With U

Here are 12 fruits starting with the letter U along with some key facts about each one:

Ugli Fruit

This strange looking citrus fruit is a hybrid of grapefruit, orange and tangerine. The thick, warty rind hides juicy, sweet and tangy flesh inside. It originated in Jamaica.

Ugni

Also called Chilean guava, this small berry fruit grows wild in parts of South America. They have a tangy, tropical flavor reminiscent of strawberry, pineapple and guava.

Umbu

The umbu tree produces tart, yellow fruits throughout the year which are often made into jams and juices. Native to northeastern Brazil, it thrives in arid climates.

Umngqusho

This South African fruit comes from the Carissa macrocarpa shrub. The grape-sized berries have a sweet-tart taste similar to cranberries when ripe.

Uvaia

Known as Amazon grape, this tropical fruit grows on a small tree native to South America. Its leathery skin protects the gelatinous, tangy pulp and seeds inside.

Uvilla

Another tropical fruit native to South and Central America, uvillas have translucent, juicy flesh that is tart with hints of banana and kiwi flavor.

Ugni Molinae

This Chilean shrub produces dangling clusters of fruits the size of small grapes. They have a distinctly spicy, fruity flavor and high vitamin C content.

White Sapote

Despite the name, white sapotes start with a U. Grown in tropical regions, this citrus relative has green skin and sweet, creamy white flesh like custard.

Wild Plums

Several plum species like cherry plums and American plums start with U. These small, tart wild plums can be eaten fresh or made into jellies.

Ugandan Blood Orange

This unique citrus variety has dark burgundy-colored flesh. The juice provides an exotic look for cocktails while offering a sweet-tart flavor.

Umeboshi Plums

These pickled plums are a staple condiment in Japanese cuisine. Sour and salty, they provide a unique umami flavor and bright pink color.

Unsalted Pistachios

Pistachios are technically a seed, but have fruit-like properties. Choosing unsalted pistachios avoids excess sodium and gives you the full flavor of this nutritious snack.

Health Benefits of U Fruits

Fruits starting with U provide an array of vitamins, minerals and beneficial plant compounds. Here are some of the top nutrients and health benefits they offer:

Vitamin C

Many U fruits like ugni, ugli fruit, and uvillas are excellent sources of immune-boosting vitamin C. This aids collagen production, heart health, iron absorption and immune function.

Fiber

Fruits often supply a mix of soluble and insoluble fiber. Fiber helps regulate digestion, lower cholesterol, control blood sugar levels and promote fullness.

Potassium

Important for fluid balance, nerve signaling and muscle function, potassium is found in bananas as well as fruits like umbu and ugli fruit.

Antioxidants

Antioxidants like vitamin C, polyphenols and carotenoids fight free radical damage and oxidative stress linked to chronic diseases.

Hydration

With their high water content, fruits like ugni and uvilla help keep the body hydrated and skin moisturized.

Selecting, Storing and Using U Fruits

Follow these tips for choosing ripe, flavorful U fruits and using them creatively:

Selecting

Look for fruits without bruises or soft spots. Pick fully ripe fruits for eating fresh based on indicators like color, softness and fragrance.

Storing

Keep unripe fruits at room temperature to ripen. Store ripe fruits in the refrigerator crisper, except for tropical fruits. Enjoy fresh as soon as possible.

Freezing

Wash, deseed and freeze in an airtight container or zip-top bag for 6-12 months. Use in smoothies or thaw and use in baked goods.

Eating Raw

Enjoy u fruits fresh, add to fruit salads, slice onto oatmeal, or blend into smoothies. Their juice also makes refreshing drinks.

Baking

Use ripe u fruits like umeboshi plums and uvillas in muffins, cakes, compotes and other baked goods or desserts.

Cooking

Add fruits like umbu and umngqusho to chutneys, sauces, soups and curries. Pair with savory or spicy flavors.

Where to Find Unusual U Fruits

Searching in the right places helps you discover new fruits starting with U to try:

Farmers Markets

Markets may have locally grown U fruits in season or exotic imports from dedicated fruit growers.

Specialty Grocers

International markets and high-end grocers may carry hard-to-find fruits from around the world.

Fruit Stands

Look for fresh u fruits at stands and mobile fruit vendors, especially in tropical regions.

Ethnic Markets

Asian, Hispanic, Middle Eastern and African markets often stock native U fruits.

Online

Order u fruits online to have exotic and fresh-picked items delivered from orchards.

Trying new fruits that start with U adds adventure to your diet and gives you a health boost. Their unique flavors, textures and nutrition make them worth seeking out.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.