Fruits are an essential part of a healthy and balanced diet, and there are many different types to choose from.
In this article, we will explore the world of fruits that start with the letter “D”.
From the sweet and juicy dates to the tangy and tropical dragon fruit, this list offers a wide variety of fruits to suit every taste preference.
We will also discuss the nutritional benefits of these fruits, as well as some creative ways to incorporate them into your diet.
So, let’s dive into the delicious world of fruits that start with “D” and discover some new favorites along the way!
Fruits That Start With D – Yummy List
- Dragon Fruit
Dragon fruit, also known as pitaya, is a unique and exotic fruit that is native to Central and South America.
The fruit has a vibrant, bright pink or yellow skin with green spiky scales that resemble a dragon, hence its name.
The flesh inside can be either white or pink, dotted with small black seeds that are edible.
Dragon fruit has a mild, slightly sweet taste with a refreshing and juicy texture, making it a popular ingredient in smoothies, salads, and other desserts.
It is also low in calories and high in nutrients, making it a great addition to a healthy diet.
Dragon fruit is a good source of vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system and promote healthy skin.
It also contains fiber, which aids in digestion, and antioxidants that help protect the body against cellular damage.
In addition, it is a good source of iron, which is important for maintaining healthy blood cells and preventing anemia.
To enjoy dragon fruit, simply cut it in half and scoop out the flesh with a spoon.
You can also slice it into cubes and add it to salads or blend it into a smoothie for a refreshing and nutritious drink.
Overall, dragon fruit is a delicious and healthy fruit that is worth trying if you haven’t already.
- Dates
Dates are a type of fruit that are native to the Middle East and North Africa.
They are commonly used in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines and have been enjoyed for their sweet and rich flavor for thousands of years.
Dates are a good source of energy, as they are high in natural sugars like glucose, fructose, and sucrose.
They also contain fiber, which can help promote digestive health and keep you feeling full for longer periods of time.
Dates are also rich in various vitamins and minerals, including potassium, magnesium, and vitamin B6, which can help support heart health, reduce inflammation, and promote healthy brain function.
In addition to being enjoyed on their own, dates can be used in a variety of recipes.
They are often used as a natural sweetener in desserts, baked goods, and smoothies, or stuffed with nuts or cheese for a savory snack.
Date paste is a popular ingredient in Middle Eastern cuisine, often used to make traditional desserts like ma’amoul or halva.
It’s worth noting that dates are high in natural sugars, so they should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
However, their nutrient profile and versatility in the kitchen make them a great addition to any healthy eating plan.
- Damson Plum
The damson plum is a type of small, tart fruit that is a member of the Prunus family, which also includes peaches, apricots, and cherries.
It is thought to be native to Europe and Asia and has been cultivated for hundreds of years for its unique flavor and culinary uses.
Damson plums are usually small, oval-shaped, and have a deep purple-blue color.
The flesh is yellow-green, and the skin is tart and astringent.
They are usually eaten cooked or processed, as the flavor is quite tart and astringent when eaten raw.
They are often used in jams, jellies, and preserves, as well as in baked goods and desserts.
Damson plums are a good source of vitamins C and K, as well as dietary fiber.
They also contain antioxidants like anthocyanins, which are responsible for their deep purple-blue color, and have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.
In addition to their culinary uses, damson plums have also been used in traditional medicine for centuries.
They are believed to have astringent and diuretic properties, and have been used to treat conditions like diarrhea, constipation, and high blood pressure.
- Dewberry
Dewberry is a type of small, blackberry-like fruit that is native to North America and Europe.
It is a member of the Rubus genus, which also includes raspberries and blackberries. Dewberries are similar in appearance to blackberries, but are usually smaller and have a softer texture.
Dewberries grow on low, trailing vines that can spread over a large area, and they usually ripen in late spring or early summer.
They are typically found in wooded areas, along roadsides, and in fields.
Dewberries are high in vitamin C and antioxidants, which are important for maintaining good health.
They are also a good source of dietary fiber, which can help improve digestive health and reduce the risk of certain diseases.
In terms of culinary uses, dewberries are often used in jams, jellies, and other sweet preserves.
They can also be used in pies and other baked goods, and can be eaten fresh or frozen for later use.
Their sweet and slightly tart flavor makes them a great addition to a variety of recipes.
In addition to their culinary uses, dewberries have also been used in traditional medicine for centuries.
They are believed to have anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties, and have been used to treat conditions like diarrhea, fever, and sore throats.
- Durian
Durian is a large, spiky fruit that is native to Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand.
It is known for its pungent odor and strong, distinctive flavor, which can be described as a mix of sweet, creamy, and slightly savory.
Durian is a rich source of nutrients, including dietary fiber, vitamin C, potassium, and iron.
It is also high in calories and fat, making it a filling and satisfying food. However, due to its high calorie content, it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
The flesh of the durian is soft and custard-like, and is divided into sections by thick, fibrous membranes.
The seeds of the fruit are also edible and can be roasted and eaten like nuts.
Some people find the taste and smell of durian unpleasant, while others consider it a delicacy.
Due to its strong odor, durian is not allowed in many public places and is often banned from hotels, airplanes, and other public transportation.
However, many people still enjoy the fruit and seek it out for its unique taste and texture.
In addition to being consumed fresh, durian is also used in a variety of desserts and other dishes, such as ice cream, cakes, and candies.
It is also used in traditional medicine to treat a range of health issues, including fever, digestive problems, and skin conditions.
- Duku
Duku is a tropical fruit that is native to Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines.
It is also known as langsat or lanzones and is closely related to other tropical fruits such as longan and rambutan.
The fruit is roughly the size and shape of a small potato, and has a thin, yellowish-brown or pale brown skin that is covered in small bumps or spines.
The flesh inside the fruit is white, translucent, and juicy, with a sweet and slightly tart flavor that is often compared to a combination of grapes and lychees.
Duku is typically eaten fresh, either by peeling off the skin or by cracking it open with the fingers and then removing the flesh.
The fruit is also used in a variety of desserts, including jams, jellies, and ice creams.
In addition to being delicious, duku is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, iron, and calcium.
It is also high in antioxidants, which can help protect the body against a range of health problems.
While duku is primarily grown and consumed in Southeast Asia, it is also popular in other parts of the world, including South America and the Caribbean.
In these regions, it is often imported and sold in specialty food stores and markets.
- Dalandan
Dalandan is a type of citrus fruit that is native to the Philippines and other Southeast Asian countries.
It is a hybrid of the mandarin orange and the pomelo and is known for its sweet and tangy flavor and bright orange color.
The fruit is small to medium-sized, with a slightly flattened shape and a thin, smooth skin that is easy to peel.
The flesh inside is juicy, with a bright orange color and a flavor that is similar to a mandarin orange, but with a slightly more sour taste.
Dalandan is commonly eaten fresh or used in drinks and desserts, and is also a popular ingredient in Filipino cuisine.
In the Philippines, dalandan is widely cultivated and is a popular fruit during its peak season, which runs from July to September.
It is also grown in other parts of Southeast Asia, as well as in other tropical regions around the world.
In addition to its delicious taste, dalandan is also a good source of vitamin C, which helps to boost the immune system and promote healthy skin and hair.
It is also rich in antioxidants and other nutrients, including potassium, fiber, and folate.
- Dwarf Coconut
The dwarf coconut is a variety of the coconut palm (Cocos nucifera) that is smaller in size than the standard coconut tree.
As the name suggests, it is a dwarf version of the coconut palm, and it is known for its compact size and early fruit-bearing capabilities.
Dwarf coconuts typically reach a maximum height of around 20-30 feet, which is significantly smaller than the standard coconut palm, which can grow up to 60-100 feet in height.
The trunk of the dwarf coconut is also thinner and slenderer than that of the standard coconut palm, making it a popular choice for backyard gardens and small-scale commercial plantations.
The fruit of the dwarf coconut is similar in appearance and taste to that of the standard coconut, with a hard, fibrous outer layer and a sweet, juicy inner flesh that is rich in nutrients like potassium and magnesium.
However, the fruit of the dwarf coconut is generally smaller in size than that of the standard coconut, and it may contain less coconut water and flesh.
Dwarf coconuts are often preferred over standard coconuts for their ease of cultivation and shorter time to fruiting.
They are also resistant to many of the diseases and pests that can affect standard coconut trees, making them a popular choice for small-scale farmers and backyard gardeners.
- Duku Langsat
Duku langsat, also known as langsat, is a tropical fruit that is popular in Southeast Asia, particularly in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand.
It belongs to the family of Meliaceae, and it is similar in appearance to lychee and longan fruits.
The fruit is small and round, roughly the size of a ping-pong ball, with a thin, smooth, and inedible skin that ranges from light brown to reddish-brown in color.
The flesh of the fruit is translucent and has a sweet, tangy, and slightly acidic taste that is reminiscent of grapes or citrus fruits.
Duku langsat is often eaten fresh, straight from the tree, and it is also used in traditional dishes and desserts in Southeast Asian cuisine.
The fruit is a good source of vitamins C and B-complex, as well as minerals such as potassium, calcium, and phosphorus.
Duku langsat is typically grown in humid, tropical climates, and the trees can reach up to 30 meters in height.
The trees bear fruit twice a year, usually in the months of June to August and December to January.
One unique characteristic of duku langsat is its sticky sap, which can be difficult to remove from the skin and hands.
For this reason, some people prefer to wear gloves or use tools when handling the fruit.
- Duku Kepel
Duku kepel is a fruit that is also known as “kepel fruit” or “kelampok.”
It is a member of the soapberry family, and is native to Southeast Asia, including Indonesia and Malaysia.
The fruit is small, round, and approximately the size of a cherry tomato. It has a thin, inedible outer skin that is yellowish green in color, and a soft, white flesh inside.
The flavor of duku kepel is sweet and slightly tart, with a taste that has been described as a combination of grape and lychee.
The fruit is usually eaten fresh, and is sometimes used in jams, jellies, and other sweet dishes.
The seeds of the fruit are not typically eaten, as they are hard and difficult to remove from the flesh.
Duku Kepel is also known as the “Chocolate Pudding Fruit” due to its unique texture and flavor.
When ripe, the flesh of the fruit has a soft and creamy consistency, similar to chocolate pudding, hence the name.
The fruit is highly valued for its distinct flavor and is often eaten fresh, although it can also be used in jams, jellies, and desserts.
It is said to have a slightly sour and sweet taste with a hint of caramel and is also known for its high nutritional value, being a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
Like other tropical fruits, duku kepel is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and may provide health benefits such as improved digestion, reduced inflammation, and increased immunity.
However, further research is needed to fully understand the potential health benefits of duku kepel and other tropical fruits.
- Dwarf Pineapple
The dwarf pineapple, also known as “Ananas comosus var. Nana,” is a variety of pineapple that is smaller in size than the typical commercial pineapple.
It is a perennial plant that belongs to the Bromeliaceae family, which is native to South America, particularly Brazil and Paraguay.
The dwarf pineapple plant grows to a height of around 20-30 centimeters, making it ideal for indoor cultivation or as a decorative plant in gardens.
The fruit is usually around 8-10 centimeters in diameter and weighs approximately 300-400 grams.
It has a sweet and juicy flesh that is yellow in color, with a fragrant aroma.
The dwarf pineapple is low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C, which helps to boost the immune system and fight off infections.
It also contains a group of enzymes called bromelain, which aids in digestion and may have anti-inflammatory properties.
Bromelain is also used in the food industry as a meat tenderizer, as well as in the production of dietary supplements.
- Draksha
Draksha, also known as “raisins” or “dried grapes,” are a type of fruit that is popularly used as a snack and in cooking in many cultures around the world.
They are made by drying grapes in the sun or in a dehydrator, which causes them to shrivel up and lose their moisture, resulting in a chewy and slightly sweet texture.
Draksha can be made from many different types of grapes, including black, green, and red varieties.
They are typically produced in warm, dry regions with abundant sunlight, such as California, Iran, and Turkey.
In addition to being a tasty snack, draksha are also a good source of several essential nutrients.
They are rich in fiber, which helps to promote healthy digestion and prevent constipation.
They also contain a range of vitamins and minerals, including potassium, iron, and vitamins C and K.
Draksha are a popular ingredient in many traditional dishes, particularly in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine.
They are often used in sweet dishes, such as puddings, cakes, and breads, as well as in savory dishes like stews and curries, and can also be used to add flavor and texture to salads and trail mix.
In addition to their culinary uses, draksha have also been used in traditional medicine for centuries.
They are believed to have a range of health benefits, including the ability to improve digestion, boost energy levels, and reduce inflammation.
However, more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits of draksha on human health.
- Davidson Plum
Davidson plum, also known as Davidson’s plum or Ooray, is a fruit that is native to Australia.
The fruit is a small, oval-shaped drupe, which is similar in appearance to a small plum.
The skin of the Davidson plum is a deep, dark purple color, while the flesh is bright red and juicy.
The fruit has a slightly tart, tangy flavor that is often compared to that of a combination of plum and raspberry.
The Davidson plum tree is a slow-growing tree that can grow up to 15 meters in height.
It is found in the rainforests of Australia, and it is well-adapted to the humid and tropical conditions found in these regions.
The fruit is highly nutritious, containing high levels of vitamin C, antioxidants, and other beneficial compounds.
Traditionally, the Davidson plum has been used by Indigenous Australians for its medicinal properties, including its ability to treat skin conditions, sore throats, and fever.
In recent years, the fruit has gained popularity in the culinary world, with chefs using it to add a unique, tangy flavor to a range of dishes, from desserts to sauces to marinades.
The fruit can be eaten fresh, but it is often used in jams, jellies, and other preserves.
It can also be dried and used as a spice, providing a tart and slightly sweet flavor to dishes.
The Davidson plum has a relatively short season, typically ripening in late summer, but it is increasingly being grown commercially to meet the growing demand for this unique and delicious fruit.
- Devil’s Tongue Fruit
Devil’s tongue fruit is a type of fruit that is native to the forests of Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
It is known by many names, including “Sauropus androgynus,” “katuk,” “sweet leaf,” and “star gooseberry”.
The fruit is a small, green, and oval-shaped capsule that contains numerous seeds.
The leaves are said to have a slightly sweet and nutty flavor, and they are often used in stir-fries, curries, and soups.
In some cultures, the leaves are also believed to have medicinal properties and are used to treat a variety of ailments.
It’s important to note that there are other fruits and plants that are sometimes referred to as “devil’s tongue” or “devil’s tongue fruit,” so it’s important to clarify which specific plant is being referred to.
- Dovyalis
Dovyalis is a genus of fruit-bearing trees and shrubs in the family Salicaceae.
The most cultivated species is Dovyalis caffra, also known as the kei apple or Kau apple.
It is native to eastern and southern Africa and is now grown in many other tropical regions around the world.
The kei apple tree is a thorny evergreen shrub or small tree that can grow up to 6 meters tall.
Its leaves are dark green and glossy, and it produces small yellow-green flowers that are followed by oblong-shaped fruit.
The fruit has a thin, hard outer shell and a soft, juicy interior that can range in color from green to yellow or orange, depending on the stage of ripeness.
The fruit of the kei apple is often used to make jams, jellies, and other preserves.
It is high in vitamin C and has a tart, slightly sour taste that is reminiscent of a combination of apple, lemon, and apricot.
In some countries, such as South Africa, the fruit is also used to make a type of alcoholic beverage called “kei apple beer.”
In addition to its culinary uses, the kei apple is also believed to have medicinal properties.
It has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, diarrhea, and stomach ulcers.
Some research has suggested that the fruit may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, but more studies are needed to confirm these potential health benefits.
List of other fruits starting with D
Date Palm
Damson
Dangshan Pear
Duhat
Dacryodes
Davana
Dipladenia
Dillenia
Dovyalis Caffra
Dovyalis Zeyheri
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many delicious and nutritious fruits that start with the letter “D”.
From the common and well-known dates to the exotic and lesser-known dragon fruit, each of these fruits offers unique flavors and health benefits.
Whether you are looking for a sweet treat or a way to boost your vitamin intake, there is a fruit on this list for everyone to enjoy.
Additionally, many of these fruits are versatile and can be eaten on their own, used in cooking and baking, or incorporated into smoothies and other drinks.
So why not try incorporating some of these fruits into your diet and discover new flavors and health benefits in the process?
Lastly, it’s important to remember that while these fruits are delicious, they should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
By incorporating a variety of fruits and vegetables into your meals, you can ensure that you are getting all the necessary vitamins and nutrients your body needs to thrive.
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