Longan

Longan Fruit

The Longan (Dimocarpus longan), often referred to as "Dragon’s Eye," is a tropical fruit native to South and Southeast Asia. Closely related to the lychee, it grows in drooping clusters on evergreen trees. The fruit is characterized by its thin, bark-like shell that, when peeled, reveals a translucent, musky-sweet flesh surrounding a single, shiny black seed—resembling an iris and pupil.

Flavor Profile

The flavor of the Longan is sophisticated and floral, offering a deeper, muskier sweetness than the lychee. It possesses a succulent, jelly-like texture with a hint of tartness and a clean, watery finish. The aroma is distinctively honeyed and tropical, often carrying a slight herbal undertone that makes it a favorite in both fresh and dried forms.

Typical Use

Longans are versatile in the kitchen, most commonly eaten fresh by simply cracking the shell with the thumb. In Asian culinary traditions, the fruit is frequently dried, which transforms the flesh into a dark, leathery, and intensely sweet ingredient used in soups and desserts. It is also a popular component in canned syrups and refreshing fruit punches.

Cultural Use & Recipes

• Traditional Medicine: In Chinese culture, Longan is valued as a "warming" food. It is traditionally used to nourish the blood, calm the nerves, and improve sleep quality, often recommended for those suffering from fatigue or anxiety.
• The "Dragon's Eye" Tea: For a restorative drink, simmer dried longans with red dates and goji berries in water for 30 minutes. This infusion is a classic tonic believed to boost energy and promote a healthy complexion.
• Sweet Congee: A comforting preparation involves cooking the fruit into a sweet rice porridge (congee) with sticky rice and lotus seeds, typically sweetened with rock sugar for a traditional celebratory breakfast or dessert.

Sold by weight. Select your preferred pound option.

Fresh longan sold by weight.

Available weight options:
• 1 lb
• 3 lb
• 5 lb

Piece size varies naturally. Final weight based on total product weight.