Safou
Dacryodes edulis
Description
Native African fruit with purple skin and green flesh. Known as "African Pear" or "Butterfruit". It is not eaten raw but cooked, having a savory, buttery taste.
Benefits
High in healthy fatty acids (palmitic and linoleic), amino acids, and Vitamin C. A calorie-dense food combating malnutrition.
History and Origins
Safou is native to Central and West Africa (Congo basin). It is one of the few fruits primarily eaten as a vegetable/staple food rather than a dessert. It is roasted or boiled and eaten with corn or cassava.
Fun Facts
Safou is 48% fat! It has the texture of butter when cooked. The tree is also known for its resin, which is used as incense or glue in local communities.
What are the varieties of Safou?
Varieties are distinguished by skin color (pink, blue, purple) and ripening time.
Nutritional Values per 100g of Safou
| Calories | 283 kcal |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrates | 14.9 g |
| Protein | 4.6 g |
| Fat | 23.5 g |
| Fiber | 3.4 g |
| Vitamin C | 5.9 mg |
Harvest Months
Harvest months listed here correspond to the Southern Hemisphere.
