The History of Starfruit

Starfruit (Averrhoa carambola) is thought to have originated in Malaysia, Indonesia, and southern China, although it is now classified as extinct in the wild. These fruits grow on trees and get their common name from their shape — when sliced in a cross-section, they closely resemble stars. Their Genus name comes from a Moorish physician and philosopher named Ibn-Ruschd, also known as Averroes. Starfruit has a long history of culinary use as well as a history of use in Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine. The fruits are cultivated and eaten in many parts of the world, including Southeast Asia, Australia, California, Florida, and Hawaii, although it should be noted that they aren’t suitable for people with kidney problems due to certain compounds they contain. Today, starfruit is popular in many parts of world and is typically eaten raw, although it is sometimes cooked, candied, or grilled.