Most loquats in the U.S. are grown in backyard gardens. Their commercial growth is limited to small scale production in California, Florida, and Hawaii. In Louisiana, the trees are appreciated for their beauty more than the fruit. While the trees are easy to grow in appropriate climates, the loquat fruit is delicate with a short shelf life. That makes it difficult to ship and even more difficult to sell on a larger, commercial scale. As a result, many people don’t know what a loquat is and have never tasted one. It’s a shame because the little known loquats are a delicious, nutritious, sweet summer treat!
What Are Loquats?
Loquats are small, pear-shaped fruits with 1 to 5 large seeds in the middle and range in color from yellow to orange. Somewhere between a peach, mango, and apricot in taste, they have a sweet, slightly tangy flavor. Soft and juicy, loquats are primarily grown in subtropical parts of China, Japan, and the Mediterranean, as well as the warmer parts of the US.
A Brief History
Originating in China, loquats have been cultivated for over 2,000 years. Originally appreciated for their medicinal properties, their use first spread to Japan where the fruit was used in teas and then later to Europe and the Americas.
Today they are still popular in many Asian, Mediterranean, and Latin American cuisines. Still found in teas, they also are used in preserves, salads, desserts, and savory dishes.
Health Benefits
It’s hard to believe so many nutritional benefits can be found in such a small, sweet package.
Rich in Vitamins & Antioxidants
- High in vitamin A – Supports eye health and boosts immunity.
- Vitamin C – Strengthens the immune system and promotes collagen production.
- Antioxidants – Help fight free radicals and reduce inflammation.
Support Heart Health
- Potassium – Helps regulate blood pressure and maintain heart function.
- Cholesterol-lowering compounds – Some studies suggest loquats may help manage cholesterol levels.
Aid Digestion & Blood Sugar Control
- High in fiber – Supports gut health and prevents constipation.
- Low glycemic index – A great fruit choice for managing blood sugar levels.
Promote Weight Management
- Low in calories – A great, guilt-free snack.
- Hydrating – Contains a high water content to keep you feeling full.
As you can see, loquats are an under-appreciated fruit that deserve a place at your table. Ready to start cooking with loquats?
Loquat & Honey Glazed Chicken
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 2 cups fresh loquats, peeled, seeded, and chopped
- 4 chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (or coconut aminos)
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
To prepare the loquats, peel and remove the seeds, then chop them into small pieces.
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine loquats, honey, soy sauce, olive oil, ginger, garlic, black pepper, salt, and chicken broth. Simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
If you like your glaze a little thicker, mix 1 tsp cornstarch with 1 tbsp water and stir it into the sauce. Let it cook for another 2 minutes until thickened. Add lemon juice and stir.
In a large pan, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked.
Lastly, pour the loquat sauce over the chicken, letting it coat and caramelize slightly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes on low heat.
Plate the chicken with extra sauce and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Pairs well with rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: ~320; Protein: 28g; Fat: 10g; Carbs: 30g; Fiber: 4g
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