Terong Belanda, also known as tamarillo or tree tomato, is a fruit gaining recognition beyond its native lands. This produce offers a complex flavor and vibrant appearance, making it a versatile addition to various culinary creations.
What is Terong Belanda
The fruit originates from the Andes mountains of South America, found in countries like Ecuador, Colombia, Peru, and Bolivia. It earned its Indonesian name, “Terong Belanda” (Dutch eggplant), because the Dutch introduced it to the region around 1941 in Bogor, West Java.
This fruit has an oval or egg-like shape. Its skin ranges in color from red, orange, or yellow to purple, while the flesh inside is orange or yellow. The taste profile is a complex blend of sweet, tart, and savory notes, with hints of passion fruit, kiwi, or tomato. The flesh is pulpy, similar to a tomato, and contains small, edible seeds.
Health Benefits
Terong Belanda is a nutrient-dense fruit, providing vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It is rich in provitamin A (beta-carotene), which supports eye health and immune function. The fruit is also rich in vitamin C, contributing to immune system strength and overall skin health.
Minerals such as potassium, calcium, phosphorus, sodium, and magnesium are present. Potassium plays a role in maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. The fruit contains antioxidants like anthocyanins, flavonoids, and carotenoids, which help combat free radicals and may reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases. Its dietary fiber content also supports digestive health.
How to Use Terong Belanda
The skin of Terong Belanda is bitter and usually removed before consumption. A common method involves briefly blanching the fruit in boiling water, then cooling it in cold water to make the skin easy to peel. Once peeled, the fruit is versatile in the kitchen.
It can be enjoyed fresh, sliced into salads, or simply scooped out with a spoon. It is a popular ingredient in beverages like juices, smoothies, and cocktails, offering a unique tangy flavor. For cooked applications, it transforms into flavorful sauces, chutneys, and jams, complementing both sweet and savory dishes. The fruit can also be incorporated into desserts such as pies and tarts, or used as a topping for savory meals like roast chicken or pasta.
Cultivating Terong Belanda
Terong Belanda thrives in subtropical to tropical highland climates, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 27 degrees Celsius. The plant is sensitive to frost and strong winds, which can damage its brittle branches, so a sheltered location is beneficial for cultivation. While generally evergreen, plants in cooler climates might shed their leaves in winter but can regrow in spring.
Well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter is suitable for growing Terong Belanda. The plant does not tolerate waterlogging or prolonged drought, making consistent moisture management important. Full sun exposure is preferred for optimal growth and fruit production, though partial shade may be better in very hot regions. Propagation is done through seeds or cuttings, with seed-grown plants bearing fruit within two years.