Pepino Melon

Unlike most other times, our discovery of this fruit was not proceeded by research. We happened upon it at our local Whole Foods, where are eyes are trained to pick out exotic specimens among the traditional fare. Unsure of how to determine ripeness, we chose at random. The melon was small (about the size of an elongated apple) and readily gave to pressure. It had a rather strong aroma that I found to be similar to that of tomatoes. The flesh cut easily and revealed a small core of small seeds mostly separated from the flesh, unlike most other melons which have a cavity lined with flat, broad seeds. Undoubtedly this is because it is not a true melon, but grows from an evergreen plant. The soft flesh tasted somewhat sweet and melon-like, but it also had some unpleasant undertones that reminded me slightly of tomato and cucumber. It was this acidic, bitter quality that ultimated turned me off. Though the flesh was plentiful, easily prepared, and pleasing in texture, I could not get past the unpleasant taste. It is safe to say that we will not be purchasing this melon again.