Papaya is a popular fruit grown throughout Central America. But you need to harvest the fruit at just the right time. Not too under ripe, not too over ripe.
Pineapple
Did you know you can grow a pineapple by simply cutting off the top and planting it in the soil? It takes about two years to produce the fruit and you need to be certain the pineapple you purchased is organic and not subject to a GMO (Genetically Modified Organism) modified plant.
Chayote “Que Rico”
Choyote is a type of squash that grows on plants that look move like grape vines. If you have a recipe for just about any squash or pumpkin recipe then chayote is a great Costa Rican substitute!
Arbole de Chili
We all think chili peppers grown on low to the ground plants. But actually some varieties grow 4 – 6 feet tall!
Cashew
Maranon is Spanish for Cashew. We all enjoy the salted nut but the pulp can be easily processed with a blender into a delicious and refreshing beverage.
Peligroso!
Ok seriously do not provoke or step on or grab one of these highly poisonous snakes. I grabbed one by accident (sleeping in my nursery stock coffee plants) and I was just plain lucky not to get bitten.
Mangoes Everywhere!
Like any fruit or vegetable there are many variety of mango. Have you ever tried an unripened green mango with salt and lime? Rico!
Palma Africana
Palma Africana is Spanish for African Palm. The seed pulp is very popular in many vegetable oil and soap and perfume products we likely have in our one homes. However, the mono-culture plantations do not allow for diversified plant systems and the emissions for the extraction of the oil produces a horrible toxin into the environment so it’s not something you want to grow if you care about the planet. However, it’s actually possible to grow this plant in an ecologically sustainable way as the Country of Ecuador has been able to accomplish.
Pavos!
Pavos is Spanish for turkeys. Turkeys are a great companion domestic farm animal and like chickens are very useful in keeping the ground insect population in check.
Vanilla Plant!
Yes vanilla plants grown in Costa Rica and the vanilla bean is sooooo flavorable!