Maypops! Who knew?
Chris showing us the fruit inside the maypop
This weekend I was introduced to a new fruit. If I were in another country I may not be surprised by it, but I was all of 45 minutes from my house when Chris Bennett showed us the Maypop. How have I never seen this? It’s native to my region and there’s a RIVER named after it (Ocoee River—apparently the Cherokee called the passionflower/maypop Ocoee).
It pops when you crack it open, and the seeds inside are covered by a half-gross, half-gummibear goop that tastes like a grape and a banana and at least two other flavors I can’t place. And, as you slowly work the seed out, it takes on a slight bitter taste at the end. Such a delight.
I need to spend more time outside!
