Japanese Nagasaki Biwa Loquats

Nagasaki Biwa Loquats are known for their unique and distinct taste of sweet tropical flavour with a spicy, somewhat acidic undertone. The seeds of loquats are relatively large and typically brown. Loquats can vary in texture from firm and crunchy to soft and juicy when fully matured. Bruised skins on loquats are often considered the sweetest, but green loquats should be avoided as they are unripe, sour, and astringent in taste. Loquats are a unique fruit with a rich history, known for their distinctive taste and high sugar content, and they have cultural significance in traditional Chinese practices.

STORAGE

Check the loquats regularly for ripeness and consume them within a few days once they are fully ripe. If you need to store them for a longer period, refrigerate ripe loquats in a perforated plastic bag or container with holes in the crisper drawer. However, it's best to consume loquats fresh and not store them for long-term storage.

FUN FACTS & TIPS

To get the most out of this fruit, brew the Loquat Leaves into Biwa Cha Tea. It is a traditional Japanese herbal tea made from the leaves of the evergreen loquat tree, also known as Japanese Medlar (Eriobotrya japonica.) The leaves are picked when still green, cleaned, and thoroughly scraped on the underside. After that, they are dried and cut before being brewed. Loquat leaves tea has earthy aromas, a tinge of sweetness, and a pale reddish-brown hue.

Nagasaki Biwa Loquats also used to be native to China and cultivated for thousands of years, typically grow in clusters on pear-shaped trees in subtropical regions, often referred to as Japanese plums. Loquats belong to the Rosaceae family and are commercially grown in various regions worldwide.

NUTRITION & HEALTH BENEFITS

• Support respiratory health and immune system
• Reduce skin irritations, redness, and swelling
• Decrease blood sugar and combat diabetes
• Lower cholesterol and improve heart health
• Improves metabolic health
• Offers anti-inflammatory properties

High in Vitamin A, Soluble Fiber, and Antioxidants. They’re also a good source of various minerals including Magnesium, Potassium, and Manganese.


Common Names: Pipa, Chinese Plum Tree, Pi Pa Ye, Rosaceae Southern China, Biwa, 芦橘, 蘆橘,  枇杷, Eriobotrya Japonica