Menteng (Baccaurea racemosa) – Crisp & Refreshing White-Fleshed Fruit Menteng is a traditional Southeast Asian fruit prized for its crisp white flesh and refreshing, tangy profile. Encased in a thin, leathery skin, the fruit delivers a bright, mouth-watering bite that’s especially enjoyed by those who love sour-forward flavors. Why You’ll Like Menteng: Distinct White Flesh: Firm, translucent-white segments with a clean, juicy crunch. Bold Tangy Flavor: Brightly sour with subtle sweetness when fully ripe—often compared to green grapes with a citrus edge. Refreshing Texture: Crisp and juicy rather than soft, making it highly refreshing in hot weather. Traditional Snack Fruit: Commonly eaten fresh with chili and salt or lightly dipped in sugar to balance the acidity. Perfect Ripeness Guide: Choose fruits that feel firm and heavy for their size. Softer fruits are slightly less acidic. Best Enjoyed Fresh: Peel, remove the flesh from the seed, and enjoy immediately for maximum freshness. Menteng is rarely exported and is best experienced fresh—making it a true seasonal specialty. Kepondong (Spondias dulcis) – Vibrant Red-Fleshed Tropical Plum Kepondong, also known as ambarella or June plum in other regions, is a bold tropical fruit known here for its red-tinged flesh and juicy, fibrous texture. It offers a lively balance of tartness and subtle sweetness, with a deeper, more robust flavor than Menteng. Why You’ll Like Kepondong: Striking Red Flesh: Juicy flesh with red to pink hues, especially near the seed—visually and flavorfully intense. Sharp, Fruity Tang: More complex and savory-sour than Menteng, with tropical plum and green mango notes. Juicy, Fibrous Bite: Crunchy when young, becoming juicier and slightly softer as it ripens. Culinary Versatility: Enjoy fresh, with chili salt, or used in juices, pickles, and traditional sauces. Perfect Ripeness Guide: Firmer fruits are more sour and crunchy; riper ones are juicier with a milder bite. Bold & Refreshing: A favorite for adventurous eaters who enjoy strong, assertive flavors.