Loquat 101: Nutrition, Benefits, How To Use, Buy, Store | Loquat: A Complete Guide

What is Loquat

Loquat is a really interesting fruit! It’s not super common, so if you haven’t heard of it, you’re not alone. Loquats are these small, round, or pear-shaped fruits that grow on trees, and they kinda look like apricots or tiny peaches. They have this sweet, tangy flavor that’s a mix of citrus and peach, with a hint of tropical taste. It’s honestly refreshing!

The skin is a little fuzzy, but most people peel it before eating. Inside, there are a few large seeds, so it’s easy to scoop out the flesh. You can eat them fresh, or sometimes people make jam, jelly, or even pies with them.

Loquat trees are pretty cool too. They’re evergreen and have these dark green leaves that look nice in gardens. They’re originally from China, but they’ve spread all over, especially in places with warm climates like California, Spain, and parts of Asia.

If you ever get the chance to try one, go for it! It’s definitely a fun fruit to add to your list of things you’ve tasted. Plus, they’re loaded with vitamins, especially vitamin A and fiber, so they’re good for you too.

Other Names of Loquat

Here are some of the other names for loquat, and believe me, it has quite a few!

• Japanese Plum: Yup, it’s not just native to Japan, but people often call it Japanese Plum.
• Chinese Plum: Makes sense, right? Since it’s also common in China.
• Pipa: This is the Chinese name. Fun fact: it’s named after a musical instrument!
• Níspero: If you’re in Spain or Latin America, this is what you’ll probably hear.
• Bibasse: In some French-speaking countries, it goes by this name.
• Eriobotrya Japonica: Okay, this one’s scientific and a little fancy, but it’s still another name!

Loquat sure has a lot of names for one little fruit!

Nutritional Value of Loquat

Nutrient	Amount per 100g
Calories	47 kcal
Carbohydrates	12.1 g
Protein	0.4 g
Fat	0.2 g
Fiber	1.7 g
Vitamin A	1528 IU
Vitamin C	1 mg
Calcium	16 mg
Potassium	266 mg
Magnesium	13 mg
Iron	0.3 mg

Loquats are not just tasty but also pretty light on calories, making them a healthy snack!

Benefits of Loquat

1. Rich in Nutrients
   Loquats are packed with vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, C, and potassium. Vitamin A helps with eye health, and vitamin C boosts your immune system. Potassium is good for your heart, so it’s a win-win.
2. Supports Digestive Health
   Loquats are high in fiber, which is great for keeping things moving in your digestive system. Fiber helps prevent constipation and promotes a healthy gut. Plus, a healthy gut can make you feel better overall.
3. Good for Your Skin
   Since loquats have a lot of antioxidants, they help protect your skin from damage caused by free radicals. Antioxidants can slow down the signs of aging, so eating loquats might help keep your skin looking fresh and healthy.
4. Helps Maintain Blood Pressure
   The potassium in loquats can help regulate blood pressure levels. Potassium works to balance out the effects of sodium in your diet, which is good news if you’re trying to manage high blood pressure.
5. Boosts Immune System
   With all that vitamin C, loquats help strengthen your immune system. Regularly eating foods rich in vitamin C can help your body fight off colds and other illnesses more effectively.
6. Promotes Healthy Eyes
   Loquats contain carotenoids, which are important for maintaining good vision. They can help prevent eye-related issues, especially as you get older.
7. Supports Heart Health
   Since loquats are full of potassium and antioxidants, they help support a healthy heart. The antioxidants fight inflammation, and potassium helps keep your heart rate steady.

Loquats are definitely an underrated fruit, but they offer so many benefits. If you haven’t tried them yet, they’re worth adding to your fruit basket!

What Does Loquat Taste Like

Loquat has this sweet, tangy, and kinda floral taste that’s really unique. If you’ve never had one before, think of it as a mix between a peach, a pear, and maybe a hint of citrus. It’s juicy, and the flavor can change a bit depending on how ripe it is. When it’s fully ripe, it’s super sweet, but if you grab it a little early, there’s more of a tang to it, almost like an apricot. It’s got this refreshing quality, kinda like you’re biting into a burst of sunshine (if that makes sense!). My kids actually love them, especially during the warmer months — they’re like little natural candies!

How To Use Loquat

1. Eat ’em Fresh
Loquats are best when eaten fresh right off the tree. Just peel the skin, pop out the seeds, and enjoy the juicy sweetness. My kids love grabbing them on a warm afternoon—they’re like nature’s candy!

2. Make a Jam
Got a bunch of loquats? Turn ’em into jam! Loquat jam is seriously underrated. It’s sweet with a little tang, and perfect on toast or even pancakes. Plus, you can make a big batch and store it for months. You’ll thank yourself later.

Here’s Loquat Jam Recipe

Making loquat jam is one of my favorite ways to use up a big batch of these juicy little fruits. It’s sweet, a bit tangy, and perfect for spreading on toast, biscuits, or even adding to yogurt. Plus, it’s a great way to preserve them if you’ve got a tree full of loquats or just overbought at the farmer’s market (guilty!). Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 4 cups of loquats, peeled and pitted
• 2 cups sugar
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1 cup water

Instructions:

1. Prep the Loquats
   First, you’ll need to peel and pit the loquats. This part can take a little time, but trust me, it’s worth it! Just slice ’em in half, remove the seeds, and peel off the skin. You should end up with about 4 cups of loquat flesh.
2. Cook the Loquats
   In a large pot, toss in your loquats, sugar, lemon juice, and water. Bring it to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to a simmer.
3. Let It Simmer
   Let the mixture simmer for about 45 minutes to an hour. Stir it every so often, so nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot. You’ll know it’s ready when the loquats break down, and it all turns into a thick, jam-like consistency.
4. Blend (Optional)
   If you prefer smooth jam, you can blend it with an immersion blender or just leave it chunky—totally up to you! I usually blend half and leave the other half chunky. That way, you get a bit of texture.
5. Jar It Up
   Once your jam has thickened to your liking, remove it from the heat. Carefully spoon the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving a little room at the top. Seal them tightly, then let them cool before popping them in the fridge.

That’s it! You’ve got homemade loquat jam. It should last a few weeks in the fridge (if you don’t eat it all before then!). I love to spread it on toast or even drizzle a bit over vanilla ice cream for a treat the kids go wild for.

3. Toss in a Salad
Loquats add a sweet and citrusy flavor to salads. Just chop them up and toss them in with your greens, nuts, and a bit of cheese. It adds a nice fruity pop that makes your salad way more exciting.

4. Blend into Smoothies
They make a great addition to your morning smoothie! Throw a few peeled loquats into your blender with yogurt, spinach, and maybe some berries. My kids can’t even tell there’s anything healthy in it, haha!

Loquat Smoothie Recipe

Here’s a super easy and delicious Loquat Smoothie Recipe that combines loquats with yogurt, spinach, and a few berries. It’s healthy, refreshing, and a great way to sneak in some greens (my kids have no clue there’s spinach in here, haha!). Here’s how you can make it:

Ingredients:

• 4-5 loquats, peeled and pitted
• 1/2 cup plain or vanilla yogurt
• 1 handful of fresh spinach
• 1/2 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, or whatever you have)
• 1/2 cup almond milk (or any milk you prefer)
• 1 tsp honey (optional, if you want it sweeter)
• A few ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Prep the Loquats
   Start by peeling and pitting your loquats. It’s quick and easy—just slice them in half, remove the seeds, and peel off the skin. You’ll want about 4-5 loquats for this smoothie.
2. Add to Blender
   Toss your loquats into the blender along with the yogurt, spinach, mixed berries, and almond milk. The yogurt makes it creamy, while the spinach adds a little green goodness that you won’t even taste (I promise!).
3. Sweeten It Up (Optional)
   If you like your smoothies a little sweeter, add a teaspoon of honey. The loquats and berries usually add enough sweetness for me, but honey is a nice touch if your fruit isn’t super ripe.
4. Blend
   Add a few ice cubes to make it cold and refreshing, then blend everything until smooth. You want the spinach to completely blend in, so it’s not too chunky.
5. Serve
   Pour your smoothie into a glass and enjoy! It’s perfect as a quick breakfast or an afternoon snack, and you get a nice balance of fruity, creamy, and just a touch of greens.

5. Bake a Loquat Pie
Okay, this one’s a bit more work, but a loquat pie is totally worth it. It’s like peach pie but with a unique flavor twist. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and it’s a fun way to use up any loquats before they go bad.

6. Turn into a Sauce
You can cook loquats down into a sauce that’s great over duck or chicken. The sweetness complements savory dishes really well. I’ve tried it a couple times, and even my picky eater loved it!

Loquat Sauce Recipe

Here’s a simple and tasty Loquat Sauce Recipe that’s perfect for drizzling over meats like chicken or pork, or even adding a fruity twist to your desserts. I love how it’s sweet but with a hint of tartness, and it only takes a few ingredients! Here’s how you can make it:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups loquats, peeled and pitted
• 1/4 cup honey (or sugar)
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• A pinch of salt
• (Optional) 1/2 tsp cinnamon or ginger for extra flavor

Instructions

1. Prepare the Loquats
   Start by peeling and pitting your loquats. You’ll need about 2 cups of loquat flesh. This step takes a little time, but once you get into the rhythm, it goes pretty quick. Trust me, it’s worth it!
2. Cook the Loquats
   In a medium saucepan, toss your loquats, honey (or sugar), water, and lemon juice. Turn the heat to medium and stir occasionally. Once it starts bubbling, lower the heat and let it simmer.
3. Simmer and Stir
   Let the loquats simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re nice and soft. You’ll want to stir it every few minutes so the sauce doesn’t stick to the pan.
4. Blend the Sauce
   Once the loquats are soft and cooked down, you can either leave the sauce chunky or blend it for a smoother texture. I like to use an immersion blender right in the pan, but a regular blender works too. Just be careful with the hot liquid!
5. Adjust the Flavor
   Taste your sauce. If you want it sweeter, add a little more honey. For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle in some cinnamon or ginger—I’ve tried both, and they really elevate the taste!
6. Cool and Serve
   Let the sauce cool for a few minutes, then transfer it to a jar or container. Serve it warm over grilled chicken or pork, or use it as a dipping sauce. It’s also great drizzled over ice cream or pancakes for a fruity touch.

This loquat sauce is a real hit in our house, especially when I serve it with dinner. It feels like a little gourmet upgrade, but it’s so easy to make! And the best part? You can keep it in the fridge for about a week, so you’ll have it ready whenever you need a sweet and tangy sauce.

7. Loquat Syrup for Drinks
Boil ’em with sugar to make a syrup, and you’ve got a homemade loquat syrup that’s great in cocktails or even just sparkling water. It’s a fun way to get creative with drinks when you have friends over.

Substitute for Loquat

1. Apricots – These are pretty close to loquats when it comes to sweetness and texture. You can use fresh or dried apricots in recipes that call for loquats, and it’ll give that nice fruity taste, kinda similar.
2. Peaches – If you need something juicy and sweet, peaches are a great swap. They’re a little softer than loquats, but they bring that sweet, tangy flavor.
3. Plums – Plums are a bit more tart, but they work well in a pinch. Just be aware they’re juicier and may change the texture of your dish a bit.
4. Mangoes – Mangoes are a bit tropical compared to loquats, but if you want something sweet and juicy, they do the job. Might even add a nice twist to your recipe.
5. Nectarines – Nectarines are a lot like peaches, and they’re a good replacement for loquats. They’ve got that same sweet bite with a little bit of crunch.
6. Papayas – For something more exotic, papayas are a cool option. They’re less tart and more tropical, but the sweetness will give you that same kinda vibe as loquats.
7. Persimmons – Persimmons have a similar sweetness but can be softer and more custard-like. Use them if you don’t mind a creamier texture in your recipe.

There you go! Simple swaps that should keep things tasty!

Where to Buy Loquat

1. Local Farmers’ Markets
   This is one of my favorite places to find fresh loquats! Farmers’ markets often have local growers selling their harvest, and you can chat with them about how to pick the best ones. Plus, it feels good to support local farmers!
2. Grocery Stores
   Some grocery stores, especially those that focus on fresh produce, might have loquats in season. I usually check the fruit section when I’m doing my weekly shopping. If you’re lucky, they might even have organic options!
3. Specialty Stores
   If you have any specialty grocery stores nearby, like those that focus on exotic fruits or organic produce, give them a visit! They often carry fruits that regular supermarkets don’t. I’ve found some really unique fruits at these places.
4. Online Retailers
   If you can’t find loquats locally, don’t worry! There are online retailers that sell fresh loquats. Just make sure to check reviews to ensure you’re getting good quality. I’ve had success with a couple of these sites, and it’s super convenient.
5. Community Gardens
   Sometimes, community gardens grow loquats, and they might have extra fruit available for picking or purchase. It’s a fun way to connect with your community and enjoy fresh fruit straight from the garden.
6. Fruit Stands
   Keep an eye out for roadside fruit stands, especially in areas where loquats are grown. These stands often have the freshest fruit, and it’s a nice little adventure to stop and shop there. My kids love picking out fruit from stands!

So, whether you’re hunting for loquats at a market or online, there are plenty of options. Just remember to check for ripeness and enjoy these tasty little fruits when you find them!

How To Store Loquat

1. How to Store Loquats at room temperature

• When to Use: If you’re planning to eat your loquats within a few days, this method is perfect!
• How to Do It: Simply place your ripe loquats in a bowl or basket on your kitchen counter. Make sure they’re not squished together too tightly to allow for airflow. This method is ideal for letting the loquats ripen a bit more if they’re not quite ready yet.
• Personal Tip: I love keeping a bowl of fruits on the counter where my kids can easily grab snacks. The loquats often disappear quickly because they’re sweet and juicy—perfect for an after-school treat!

2. How to Store Loquats in the fridge

• When to Use: This method is great if you want your loquats to stay fresh for up to a week.
• How to Do It: Start by gently washing the loquats under cool water to remove any dirt. After drying them with a clean towel, place them in a plastic bag or an airtight container. If you choose a bag, be careful not to squash them! Then, simply pop them into the fridge.
• Personal Tip: I usually keep my loquats in the crisper drawer. They last longer this way, and my kids love reaching for them as a healthy snack. Just a little reminder to check every few days because, you know, kids can sometimes forget about them!

3. How to Store Loquats in the Freezer

• When to Use: If you have an abundance of loquats and want to save them for later, freezing is a fantastic option!
• How to Do It: First, wash and dry the loquats thoroughly. Next, cut them in half and remove the pits. You can also slice them if you prefer. Lay the prepared loquats out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them until solid, which usually takes a few hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag, squeezing out as much air as possible before sealing.
• Personal Tip: I love adding frozen loquats to smoothies during the winter months. They bring a burst of summer flavor to our breakfast and make it so refreshing! Plus, my kids think it’s cool to have “frozen fruit” in their smoothies.

4. Making Loquat Jam or Preserves

• When to Use: This method is perfect if you want to preserve the wonderful flavor of loquats for an extended time.
• How to Do It: Start by washing and chopping the loquats. Cook them in a pot with sugar and a little lemon juice until they break down and form a thick consistency. Pour the jam into sterilized jars while it’s still hot and seal them tightly. Store the jars in the fridge, and enjoy your homemade jam for weeks or even months!
• Personal Tip: I love making loquat jam as a special treat for my family. It’s amazing on toast or as a topping for pancakes. And when I give jars away as gifts, everyone is always impressed!

5. Dehydrating Loquats

• When to Use: If you’re looking for a healthy, portable snack that lasts a while, dehydrating is the way to go.
• How to Do It: Wash and slice the loquats, removing the pits. You can use a food dehydrator or your oven on a low temperature (around 140°F or 60°C) to dry them out. Spread the slices out evenly and dehydrate them until they’re chewy but not sticky. Once they’re fully dried, store them in an airtight container.
• Personal Tip: My kids love munching on dried fruits! I often pack a small bag of dehydrated loquats in their lunches as a fun treat. They’re a great way to add variety to the snack options.

6. Canning Loquats

• When to Use: This method is ideal if you have lots of loquats and want to store them long-term.
• How to Do It: Prepare a simple syrup by boiling water and sugar together. Pack the washed and pitted loquats into sterilized canning jars and pour the hot syrup over them, leaving some space at the top. Seal the jars tightly and process them in a water bath canner for the recommended time (usually around 15-20 minutes). After cooling, check the seals to make sure they’re airtight.
• Personal Tip: Canned loquats are fantastic to have on hand for baking or as toppings for desserts. I remember my mom used to can fruits when I was a kid, and it always felt like such a treat to open a jar in the winter and taste the flavors of summer!

By using these different methods, you can enjoy your loquats fresh, frozen, or preserved for months to come. Each method has its perks, and it really depends on how you like to enjoy your loquats! From quick snacks to delightful jams, these fruits can add so much flavor and joy to your meals. I can’t wait to hear how you like to store and use your loquats!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)