Rambutan

Rambutan: The Hairy Jewel of the Tropics

The Rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum), known in Thai as Ngor (เงาะ), is one of Southeast Asia's most visually striking and deliciously sweet fruits. Its name, derived from the Malay word rambut (meaning "hair"), perfectly describes its signature feature: a spiky, vibrant appearance that contrasts beautifully with the translucent, succulent flesh inside.

A Vibrant and Spiky Exterior

The rambutan is roughly the size of a golf ball and grows in loose clusters. The rind is covered in thick, soft, reddish-yellow spines or "hairs," giving the fruit its exotic, almost whimsical look. The color is typically a rich crimson or bright yellow-red when fully ripe, instantly catching the eye in any Thai fruit market.

The Refreshing Interior

To eat a rambutan, the rind is easily peeled away, revealing a single, glistening white or pale pinkish-white ovular segment of flesh.

• Texture: The flesh is firm yet soft, highly juicy, and separates easily from the seed (though some varieties are stickier).
• Flavor: The taste is purely refreshing—a perfect balance of sweetness with a delicate, clean, and slightly acidic finish. It is often compared to a lychee or longan, but the rambutan’s flavor is typically milder and clearer. Because of its high water content, it is a fantastic, hydrating treat in the tropical heat.

Cultivation and Enjoyment

Rambutan is a major commercial crop in Thailand, with orchards particularly abundant in the southern and eastern provinces. The harvest season, generally peaking from May to September, brings the freshest fruit to consumers.While rambutan is best enjoyed fresh, eaten straight after peeling, its sweet, firm flesh also makes it popular for:

• Canning: Preserved in syrup for export or consumption during the off-season.
• Fruit Salads and Cocktails: Used as a sweet, textural component.

With its flamboyant look and its clean, invigorating taste, the rambutan is a quintessential tropical experience and a delicious example of Thailand's rich fruit diversity.