Originally native to China, the litchi is now grown in many parts of the world. This small fruit (1-2 inches in diameter) has a rough, red rind that covers a tender white flesh that is fragrant and sweet. Fresh, they are eaten plain or as part of a fruit salad or dessert. Dried, they are referred to as “litchi nuts” and are eaten as a snack.
Litchi are an excellent source of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that offers health benefits including promoting a healthy immune system and reducing the risk of heart disease, hypertension, cancer, and other degenerative diseases. Litchi can be added to processed foods, desserts, and other food products.