Black Sapote: Description, Origins, Uses & More…

This one’s for the chocolate lovers!

Black sapote is a tropical fruit native to Mexico and Central America, known for its sweet taste and health benefits. It has been used as an ingredient in traditional dishes for centuries and recently gained popularity due to its unique flavor profile and numerous nutritional benefits.

So, lets dive down and learn everything you need to know about Black sapote.

What is Black Sapote?

Black sapote, also known as “chocolate pudding fruit,” is a tropical fruit native to Mexico and Central America. It has a green peel and soft brown flesh, similar to an avocado’s. When ripe, it has a sweet and custardy flavor that resembles chocolate pudding. The fruit is also high in fiber, vitamins A and C, iron, calcium, magnesium, zinc, and other essential minerals.

Description of Black Sapote:

Black sapotes are a close cousin to persimmon in shape and size being round and compact. Size ranges from 5 to 15 centimeters in diameter and have a lime-green color with a dark green stem. They have a smooth and shiny skin, with bubble like dots across their surface.

As the fruit ripens, dark smudges and spots will appear on the skin. The fruit gives a wrinkled and bruised appearance at full ripeness. Black Sapote’s flesh is dark brown and has a burnt and caramel look that resembles the texture of a date or overripe papaya.

History and Origins:

The Black sapote, also known as chocolate pudding fruit, originated in Mexico and Central America. It is believed to have been cultivated by the Mayans and Aztecs for centuries. The Spanish introduced it to the Caribbean and other tropical regions while exploring the New World. Since then, it has become popular in Latin American countries such as Mexico, Guatemala, Costa Rica, and Panama.

The Black sapote is part of the family of persimmon fruits, which includes other varieties, such as the white sapote. The tree grows up to 15 meters tall with dark green leaves and white flowers that bloom in January or February. The fruit usually takes between three to five months to ripen and can reach up to 10 centimeters in diameter. The skin is thin and velvety, while the flesh inside is dark brown with a thick, jelly-like consistency.

Flavor Profile:

The Black sapote has a unique flavor profile described as sweet and custardy, with notes of chocolate and banana. Its texture resembles a ripe avocado or persimmon, but its taste is more distinct. The sweetness comes from the natural sugars in the fruit, which can be enjoyed fresh or cooked. 

Contrary to popular belief, it does not really taste like chocolate, but it does have a pudding texture and a pleasantly sweet/mild flavor when ripe.

Health Benefits of Black Sapote

Black sapote is an excellent source of dietary fiber that helps support healthy digestion by promoting regular bowel movements. Additionally, it contains essential nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, iron, and potassium, which are important for maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system. It also provides vitamins A and C, essential for promoting healthy skin and eyesight.

Black sapote is also rich in powerful antioxidants, and studies have shown that it may help reduce inflammation and improve overall health by fighting free radicals.

The high fiber content in Black sapote can also help to regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. Additionally, its polyphenols have been found to help lower cholesterol levels, which can reduce the risk of heart disease.

Where is it Grown?

Black Sapotes grow in tropical and subtropical climates, where they are often cultivated in gardens or sold at farmers’ markets. Black sapotes are relatively obscure fruits with a short window of availability, making them rare to find in regions far from where they are grown.

They are grown in Florida, Cuba, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Central America and in tropical areas of Asia and Australia.

In United States, Florida and Cuba are the major producers of Black Sapote. Some variety of Sapotes grow well in Southern Florida such as “Merida” and “Bernicker”.

Cultivation:

Climate:

Black Sapote trees thrive in tropical and warm subtropical areas and may be planted from sea level to an altitude of about 6,000 ft. Trees are not cold tolerant with young trees damaged or killed at or below 30°F (-1°C) and mature trees at or below 28°F (-2°C). Black Sapote trees can handle flood but are only moderately drought tolerant.

Spacing:

Planting distances would depend on soil type, fertility and expertise of the homeowner. Black sapote trees in the home landscape should be planted 25 to 30 feet or more (7.6 to 9.1 m) away from buildings and other trees.

Soil:

Black sapote trees grow well in most well drained soil types including sands and limestone-based, high-pH soils.

Irrigation:

Newly planted black sapote trees should be watered at planting and every other day for the first week or so and then 1 to 2 times a week for the first couple of months. During prolonged dry periods (e.g., 5 or more days of little to no rainfall) newly planted and young black sapote trees (first 3 years) should be watered once a week. Once the rainy season arrives, irrigation may be reduced or stopped.

Site Selection:

Black Sapote trees should be planted in full sun for best growth and fruit production. Select a part of the landscape away from other trees, buildings and structures, and power lines. Remember black sapote trees can become very large if not pruned to contain their size.

Planting:

Dig a hole 3 to 4 times the diameter and 3 times as deep as the container the black sapote tree came in. Making a large hole loosens the soil next to the new tree, making it easy for the roots to expand into the adjacent soil. It is not necessary to apply fertilizer, topsoil, or compost to the hole.

Irrigation:

Newly planted black sapote trees should be watered at planting and every other day for the first week or so and then 1 to 2 times a week for the first couple of months. During prolonged dry periods (e.g., 5 or more days of little to no rainfall) newly planted and young black sapote trees (first 3 years) should be watered once a week. Once the rainy season arrives, irrigation may be reduced or stopped.

Fertilizing:

A well-balanced, slow-release fertilizer can do wonders for your trees. Apply in early spring and again in late summer to provide the tree with essential nutrients. Look for a fertilizer designed for fruit trees or one with a balanced N-P-K ratio (Nitrogen-Phosphorus-Potassium) of 10-10-10.

Pruning:

Pruning during the first 2 years encourages lateral branching and growth. After several years of production, it is best to cut back the tops of the trees to 12 to 15 feet (3.6 to 4.6 m). To prevent the loss of the lower tree canopy due to shading by the upper canopy, selectively remove a few upper limbs back to their origins (crotches) each year.

Harvesting:

The harvesting season for Black Sapote typically runs from November to March, with the peak season being December through February. The fruit is picked when the skin is still green and semi-firm to the touch. It will then ripen off the tree within a few days at room temperature. After harvest, Black Sapote can be kept for a few weeks in cool dark places, such as refrigerators. The shelf life of the fruit can be extended by storing it in a cool, dry place.

Where to Buy?

The best place to find the highest quality Black Sapote vegetables is at your local farmer’s market or farm stand. Many farmers grow and sell this unique fruit, so it’s worth looking around in your area. 

You can also order them from online platforms such as Instacart or buy them at supermarkets such as Wholefoods, Walmart and Target.

When shopping for Black Sapote, look for firm fruit with a deep black color. The skin should be slightly soft, and the flesh should be creamy. Avoid any fruit with brown spots or bruises, indicating it is overripe. If you purchase Black Sapote online, check out the retailer’s customer reviews before ordering to ensure you’re getting the highest quality product. 

How to Store Black Sapote Vegetables?

Black Sapote vegetables should be stored in a cool, dry place. Keep them away from direct sunlight, and make sure they are not exposed to heat or moisture. Store them in an airtight container to keep out pests and other contaminants.

If you plan to use the Black Sapote within a few days of purchase, store it in the refrigerator. It should be used as soon as possible, within a few days. If you need to store it for longer than that, it can be frozen for up to three months. Be sure to wrap the black sapote in plastic before freezing and thaw it out in the refrigerator when ready to use. When stored properly, black sapote can last for several weeks.

Various Culinary Uses:

Black Sapote can be used in a variety of recipes. It is often used as a sweetener to thicken desserts such as pies, puddings, cakes, and other baked goods. The flesh of the Black Sapote can also be pureed or mashed and added to smoothies, shakes, and other drinks for an extra boost of flavor and nutritional value. The fruit can also be diced and added to salads, salsas, or other savory dishes for a burst of color and texture. 

When baking, Black Sapote is often combined with other fruits, such as mangoes, bananas, papaya, or strawberries, to create delicious desserts. In addition, the fruit can be cooked into jams, jellies, and preserves. 

Finally, the leaves of the Black Sapote tree can also be used to make a tea that is said to have nutritional and medicinal benefits. Whatever you choose to make with your Black Sapote will surely add an exotic flavor and nutritional boost to any dish.

Conclusion:

Black Sapote is a unique and nutritious fruit that is full of flavor. It has a distinct, custardy flavor with notes of chocolate and banana, making it an excellent addition to desserts and drinks. With the proper care and storage, Black Sapote can last several weeks.

Best of all, it can be enjoyed fresh or cooked, and its leaves make a nutritious blend of tea. So, try Black Sapote for your next recipe or snack – you won’t be disappointed. 

FAQ’s

Q.1 What does Black Sapote taste like?

Ans.- The Black Sapote has a unique flavor profile described as sweet and custardy, with notes of chocolate and banana. Its texture resembles a ripe avocado or persimmon, but its taste is more distinct. The sweetness comes from the natural sugars in the fruit, which can be enjoyed fresh or cooked. 

Q.2 When is Black Sapote in season?

Ans.- Black Sapotes are available from late summer to early spring. In Florida, Black Sapote is harvested from late November through February or March.

Q.3 Where does Black Sapote grow?

Ans.- Black Sapotes are grown in Florida, Cuba, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Central America and in tropical areas of Asia and Australia.

Q.4 When is Black Sapote ready to eat?

Ans.- This are not ready to enjoy until the skin has begun to grow brown, and it is soft enough that pressing on it leaves a mark.

Q.5 Can you grow Black Sapote in a pot?

Ans.- If you grow a black sapote in a pot, it is likely to grow quickly. Consequently, within a few years it will need a much bigger pot, or a permanent home outside a pot, if you want it to continue to grow and increase fruit production.