Basic Introduction to Dujiangyan Kiwifruit
The kiwifruit, also known as the Actinidia or vine kiwi, is commonly referred to as “máo lí” (Chinese gooseberry) or “strange fruit.” The fruit is rich in Vitamin C, sweet and sour in taste, and has a pleasant aroma, earning it the title of “King of Fruits.” In the early 1980s, Dujiangyan City introduced the “Hayward” kiwifruit from New Zealand. After nearly two decades of development, it has become the largest commercial base for “Hayward” kiwifruit in China.
Nutritional Value
In addition to containing actinidine, proteolytic enzymes, tannins, pectin, sugars, and other organic compounds, as well as calcium, potassium, selenium, zinc, germanium, and 17 amino acids required by the human body, kiwifruit is also rich in vitamins, glucose, fructose, citric acid, malic acid, and fats.
Among the top 26 fruits with the highest consumption worldwide, kiwifruit is the most abundant and comprehensive in nutrients. The kiwifruit has the highest content of Vitamin C, magnesium, and trace elements.
Product Characteristics
The texture of the kiwifruit is soft, and its flavor is sometimes described as a blend of strawberry, banana, and pineapple. It was named after the Chinese golden monkey because they enjoy eating it; another theory suggests that it was named due to its hairy skin resembling that of the monkey. It is a tender, nutritious, and delicious fruit favored by people for its beautifying and anti-aging effects on the skin, and it is popular among all age groups.
History and Folklore
Since its introduction in the early 1980s, local farmers and investors have gained new insights into its development prospects and economic benefits. Over the past two decades, Dujiangyan City has established nearly ten thousand acres of high-quality kiwifruit plantations, with 60% being “Hayward,” 30%–40% being red and yellow-fleshed varieties. Currently, Dujiangyan's “Hayward” standardized plantation is the largest kiwifruit production base in China, with over 70% of its products sold outside the province and overseas.
Tasting and Serving Suggestions for Dujiangyan Kiwifruit
Aloe Kiwifruit Slushie
Ingredients: 3 kiwifruits, 30 grams of aloe vera juice, 20 grams of white sugar, 100ml of boiled water
Instructions
1. Choose slightly softer kiwifruits for a sweeter finished product.
2. Peel the kiwifruits and cut them into cubes for later use.
3. Add the cubed kiwifruit and white sugar to a blender.
4. Pour in boiled water or purified water.
5. Blend until chunky, then transfer to a sealed container.
6. Freeze for 5 hours, stirring once. If left overnight, thaw slightly in the morning before stirring. Stir until a slush-like consistency is achieved.