Feijoas are incredibly popular in New Zealand, but here in Australia many people have never heard of them – let alone tried them.
If you are curious, we have all the information you need to find, eat and enjoy this slightly mysterious fruit.
What are feijoas?
Native to the highlands of Brazil and neighbouring South American countries, the feijoa tree has been widely cultivated for its looks as well as its fruit.
Feijoas generally ripen in April and May, however there are new varieties coming out which can extend the season from March to June.
Gardener Kat Lavers told ABC Radio Melbourne it is currently "raining feijoas" at her place.
"It is a really unique flavour," she says. "The white petals that appear in spring are actually edible as well".
Self-proclaimed "fruit nerd" Thanh says many people describe them as having a guava-like taste.
"I think the main flavour profile is tang," Thanh says.
"The inner core is quite sweet but as you go out it becomes tangy."
How do you pick and store them?
If you are lucky enough to have a feijoa tree in your backyard or neighbourhood you should wait for the fruit to fall to the ground before harvesting.
"That is when they've reached maturity," Thanh says.
In a greengrocer, picking a feijoa that is ready to eat is similar to picking a ripe avocado – the skin should have a bit of give when you gently squeeze it (about 2mm).
"If it is still firm it needs time to ripen," Thanh says.
"If it is giving, it means the inside is translucent, starting to go like jelly, this is the optimal moment of eating."
Once you have got your feijoas, Thanh recommends storing them loose in the fridge.
How can you eat feijoas?
Feijoas are a great snacking fruit because you can just pick them up and eat them, however Kat said most people will scoop out the flesh like a kiwi fruit.
They are also a great ingredient, and can be a substitute for apples or pears in most recipes.
"I've had feijoa beer, feijoa ice cream and feijoa muffins," Thanh says.
"The apple feijoa crumble is a really good one."
If you are looking for inspiration you could start with this spiced feijoa chutney, or these feijoa and apple muffins.
Where can I find feijoas?
When they are in season, at least one major supermarket chain and many greengrocers stock feijoas, but they can be pricey – this year they are selling for $10–$15 per kilogram.
Kat suggests scouring your local neighbourhood.
"The best way to find them is forage and ask permission of course, if it is on someone else block," she says.
"And also social media — I've given a lot away on social media in recent years."
The interview with Kat Lavers was first aired on ABC Radio Melbourne's Breakfast program with Sammy J.
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