Curuba banana passion fruit 7 pcs

Curuba (Passiflora tarminiana) – exotic banana passion fruit

Curuba, sometimes also called banana passion fruit, belongs to the passion fruit family (Passifloraceae) and is a close relative of the better-known passion fruit (Passiflora edulis). It comes from the Andean regions of South America, especially Colombia, Ecuador and Peru, where it grows in mountainous areas at higher altitudes (1,800–3,600 m above sea level).

🌿 Curuba plant
Curuba is a climbing vine that can reach a length of up to 10 meters. It has heart-shaped to three-lobed leaves and beautiful flowers with white and pink-purple shades. The curuba flower is typical of passion fruits – it has striking stamens and corollas resembling exotic ornaments.

The plant is grown on supports or pergolas and requires a warmer but mild climate with sufficient humidity. It bears fruit throughout the year, with the main harvest taking place during the dry season.

🍊 Curuba fruit
Curuba has an elongated, cylindrical shape, similar to a small banana, usually 8–12 cm long. The skin is yellow-green, thin, but firm, with a slightly velvety surface.

Inside is a gelatinous, orange pulp with many small black seeds. The consistency is similar to classic passion fruit, but the taste is softer, sweet and sour with notes of citrus, passion fruit and banana.

✅ How is curuba consumed?
Curuba is most often consumed raw, but it has versatile uses:

Direct consumption: The fruit is cut lengthwise and the pulp is scooped out with a spoon.

Juices and smoothies: It is great for mixing with other fruits (banana, mango, pineapple).

Ice creams and sorbets: Its aromatic taste will liven up desserts.

Cocktails: Adds an exotic flavor to alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.

Sauces and jams: Goes well with both sweet and savory dishes.

Traditional use in South America: Curuba is used to make refreshing drinks, often mixed with milk and sugar, creating delicious fruit cocktails.

❄️ How to store curuba?
At room temperature, it will last for several days if it is not ripe.
In the refrigerator (5–10 °C) it will last for up to 10 days.
Freezing: The flesh can be frozen well, ideally in the form of a puree.
💡 Tip: If the fruit is hard and less aromatic, let it ripen at room temperature for a few days, until the skin is deep yellow and slightly soft.