36 Fruits That Start With K [Ultimate List with Details and Photos!]

36 Fruits That Start With K [Ultimate List with Details and Photos!]

Fruits beginning with the letter K offer a delightful variety of flavors and uses, from the familiar Kiwi to the exotic Kakadu Plum. In this article, we’ll explore a comprehensive list of 36 fruits starting with “K,” along with their origins, taste profiles, health benefits, and fun facts.

Introduction

The world of fruits that start with “K” is surprisingly diverse and exciting. These fruits span across continents, cultures, and cuisines, offering everything from tropical sweetness to tart citrus flavors. If you’re curious about broadening your fruit knowledge, experimenting with new tastes, or simply intrigued by unique names, this guide is perfect for you.

Comprehensive List of 36 Fruits That Start With K

1. Kabosu

• Origin: Japan
• Taste: Citrusy and tangy, similar to lime.
• Benefits: Rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants. Often used in Japanese cuisine for sauces and beverages.

2. Kaffir Lime

• Origin: Southeast Asia
• Taste: Extremely tart; the leaves are aromatic.
• Benefits: Supports digestion and boosts immunity. Common in Thai and Indonesian dishes.

3. Kahikatea

• Origin: New Zealand
• Taste: Sweet and slightly nutty.
• Benefits: Packed with natural sugars and vitamins. Traditionally eaten by the Māori people.

4. Kakadu Plum

• Origin: Australia
• Taste: Tart and astringent.
• Benefits: One of the richest sources of Vitamin C in the world. Used in jams, sauces, and skincare.

5. Kaki Persimmon

• Origin: Japan, China
• Taste: Sweet and honey-like when ripe.
• Benefits: High in Vitamin A, potassium, and dietary fiber.

6. Kanzi Apple

• Origin: Belgium
• Taste: Crisp and sweet with a tart finish.
• Benefits: Low in calories, high in fiber, and a great source of Vitamin C.

7. Karonda Berries

• Origin: India
• Taste: Tart when unripe, sweetens as it ripens.
• Benefits: Contains Vitamin C, calcium, and iron. Often used in pickles and syrups.

8. Kasturi Mango

• Origin: Indonesia
• Taste: Sweet with a strong mango aroma.
• Benefits: High in Vitamin A and beta-carotene.

9. Kawakawa

• Origin: New Zealand
• Taste: Peppery and slightly bitter.
• Benefits: Known for its anti-inflammatory and medicinal properties.

10. Kaywa

• Origin: South America
• Taste: Mildly sweet, cucumber-like texture.
• Benefits: Hydrating and low in calories.

11. Kei Apple

• Origin: Africa
• Taste: Tangy and acidic.
• Benefits: Rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants.

12. Keitt Mango

• Origin: Florida, USA
• Taste: Sweet and juicy.
• Benefits: High in Vitamin A and C, with a fiber-rich content.

13. Key Limes

• Origin: Southeast Asia, Caribbean
• Taste: Tart and aromatic.
• Benefits: Packed with Vitamin C, perfect for pies and marinades.

14. Kiwano (Horned Melon)

• Origin: Africa
• Taste: Sweet and cucumber-like.
• Benefits: Rich in Vitamin C, iron, and magnesium.

15. Kiwi

• Origin: China
• Taste: Sweet and slightly tangy.
• Benefits: Loaded with Vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants.

16. Knobby Russet Apple

• Origin: England
• Taste: Sweet with a nutty aroma.
• Benefits: Excellent source of fiber and Vitamin C.

17. Kokoneos

• Origin: Greece
• Taste: Sweet and mild.
• Benefits: High in antioxidants and vitamins.

18. Korean Pear

• Origin: Korea
• Taste: Juicy and sweet with a crisp texture.
• Benefits: Hydrating and rich in Vitamin K.

19. Korlan

• Origin: Southeast Asia
• Taste: Sweet and tart.
• Benefits: Contains Vitamin A, potassium, and dietary fiber.

20. Körsbär (Cherries)

• Origin: Sweden
• Taste: Sweet to tart, depending on the variety.
• Benefits: High in antioxidants and melatonin.

21. Kowai

• Origin: Polynesia
• Taste: Slightly sweet and tropical.
• Benefits: Known for its hydrating properties.

22. Kumquats

• Origin: China
• Taste: Sweet skin with tart pulp.
• Benefits: High in Vitamin C and great for immune health.

23. Kutjera (Desert Raisins)

• Origin: Australia
• Taste: Sweet and earthy.
• Benefits: Packed with antioxidants and potassium.

24. Kvede (Quince)

• Origin: Mediterranean
• Taste: Tart when raw, sweet when cooked.
• Benefits: High in Vitamin C and dietary fiber.

25. Kwai Muk

• Origin: India
• Taste: Sweet and acidic.
• Benefits: Rich in Vitamin A and calcium.

26. Kyoho Grapes

• Origin: Japan
• Taste: Sweet and juicy with a wine-like aroma.
• Benefits: High in antioxidants and natural sugars.

27. Kantola

• Origin: India
• Taste: Bitter, often used in curries.
• Benefits: Supports digestion and detoxification.

28. Keule Fruit

• Origin: Chile
• Taste: Sweet and tangy.
• Benefits: High in natural sugars and Vitamin C.

29. Kokum

• Origin: India
• Taste: Tangy and slightly sweet.
• Benefits: Aids digestion and is often used in cooling beverages.

30. Kiwi Berry

• Origin: East Asia
• Taste: Sweet like regular kiwi but smaller and smoother.
• Benefits: Rich in Vitamin C and low in calories.

31. Kinkan

• Origin: Japan
• Taste: Sweet and tangy.
• Benefits: High in Vitamin C and great for snacking.

32. Karella (Bitter Melon)

• Origin: India
• Taste: Bitter, used in savory dishes.
• Benefits: Supports blood sugar regulation and digestion.

33. Kundang Fruit

• Origin: Malaysia
• Taste: Sweet and creamy.
• Benefits: High in Vitamin A and calcium.

34. Kaimito (Star Apple)

• Origin: Philippines
• Taste: Sweet and creamy.
• Benefits: High in antioxidants and Vitamin C.

35. Kaffir Plum

• Origin: Africa
• Taste: Tart and acidic.
• Benefits: Used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties.

36. Kawista

• Origin: Indonesia
• Taste: Sweet and caramel-like.
• Benefits: Aids digestion and is used in traditional desserts.

• Fun Facts About Fruits That Start with K

  1. Kabosu: In Japan, Kabosu juice is traditionally used to enhance fish dishes because it neutralizes fishy odors.
  2. Kaffir Lime: Its leaves are a key ingredient in Thai green curry, offering a unique citrus aroma.
  3. Kakadu Plum: Holds the record for being the fruit with the highest Vitamin C content—100 times more than oranges!
  4. Kiwi: Originally called the “Chinese Gooseberry,” it was renamed after New Zealand’s national bird, the Kiwi.
  5. Kumquat: Unlike most fruits, you eat the skin of a kumquat, which is sweeter than the pulp.
  6. Kyoho Grapes: These grapes are so large that they are often peeled and eaten one at a time in Japan.
  7. Keitt Mango: Unlike most mangoes, Keitt mangoes stay green even when they are ripe.
  8. Kantola: This bitter melon variety is prized in Indian cuisine for its health benefits and unique flavor.
  9. Korean Pears: Known as “apple pears,” they are shaped like apples but taste like a sweeter, juicier pear.
  10. Kutjera (Desert Raisins): These tiny fruits were a staple food for Indigenous Australians for centuries.

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  Benefits of Fruits Starting with K

  1. Rich in Nutrients: Most fruits starting with K, like Kiwi, Kumquat, and Kakadu Plum, are high in essential vitamins such as Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and potassium.
  2. Boost Immunity: Fruits like Kaffir Lime and Kakadu Plum are packed with antioxidants that strengthen the immune system.
  3. Aid Digestion: Fibrous fruits like Kiwi and Kanzi Apples promote healthy digestion and prevent constipation.
  4. Hydrating: Fruits such as Kaywa and Korean Pears have high water content, making them great for hydration.
  5. Support Heart Health: Many fruits, including Kumquats and Kyoho Grapes, are low in cholesterol and contain heart-friendly nutrients.
  6. Skin Health: Kakadu Plum and Kiwi are excellent for glowing skin due to their Vitamin C and antioxidant properties.
  7. Weight Management: Low-calorie fruits like Karonda and Kei Apple are ideal for weight-conscious individuals.
  8. Anti-Inflammatory: Kawakawa and Kutjera are known for their natural anti-inflammatory compounds.

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  Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  Q1: Which fruit starting with K is the most nutritious?

  A1: The Kakadu Plum is considered the most nutritious, thanks to its unparalleled Vitamin C content, which boosts immunity and skin health.

  Q2: Can I eat the skin of Kiwi?

  A2: Yes, Kiwi skin is edible and packed with fiber, although some people may prefer peeling it due to its fuzzy texture.

  Q3: Are Kumquats sweet or sour?

  A3: Kumquats have a sweet edible skin and tart inner pulp, offering a unique sweet-and-sour taste.

  Q4: What makes Korean Pears different from regular pears?

  A4: Korean Pears are juicier, crunchier, and often larger than regular pears, with a mild, sweet flavor.

  Q5: Can Kaffir Lime leaves be eaten raw?

  A5: Kaffir Lime leaves are typically used as a seasoning in cooking rather than eaten raw, as they are tough and have a strong flavor.

  Q6: What is the best way to store fruits like Kiwi and Kumquats?

  A6: Store Kiwi in the fridge to extend its freshness, and keep Kumquats at room temperature or refrigerate for longer shelf life.

  Q7: Are fruits like Kantola and Karonda only available in specific seasons?

  A7: Yes, Kantola is primarily available during the monsoon season, while Karonda is typically found in the summer months.

  Q8: What are some unique uses for fruits like Kabosu and Kaffir Lime?

  A8: Kabosu juice is great for marinating fish, while Kaffir Lime leaves are ideal for flavoring soups, curries, and teas.

  Q9: Can Keitt Mangoes be eaten green?

  A9: Yes, Keitt Mangoes are sweet and juicy even when their skin remains green, making them perfect for both snacking and salads.

  Q10: Are there any traditional medicinal uses for fruits like Kutjera or Kawakawa?

  A10: Kutjera has been used by Indigenous Australians for its nutritional and medicinal properties, while Kawakawa is traditionally used in New Zealand for its anti-inflammatory benefits.

Conclusion

From the tartness of Kabosu to the sweetness of Kyoho Grapes, fruits starting with the letter “K” represent an incredible variety of flavors and nutritional benefits. Whether you’re looking to diversify your diet or learn about exotic fruits, this list of 36 fruits offers more information than any competitor while catering to foodies and health enthusiasts alike.