17 Fruits That Start with E (With Pictures): Encountering the Exotic

When you think of fruits, the usual suspects, like apples, bananas, and oranges, might come to mind. But what about the more exotic, lesser-known varieties that start with the letter ‘E’? In this list, we’re diving into the world of extraordinary fruits, each with its own unique flavor, texture, and story. From the tart tang of elderberries to the creamy sweetness of eggfruit, these 17 exotic fruits are sure to expand your culinary horizons and add a dash of adventure to your next fruit platter.

Elderberry

Elderberries are tiny, dark purple berries that grow in clusters on elder trees. They have a slightly tart flavor with a deep, earthy undertone. Often found in syrups, jams, and wines, elderberries bring a rich, complex taste to any dish. Historically, these berries have played a role in European folklore, where they were believed to ward off evil spirits.

Eggfruit

Also known as canistel, this bright yellow-orange fruit has a texture that’s oddly similar to a boiled egg yolk. The sweet, creamy flesh tastes like a blend of pumpkin pie and sweet potato, making it a perfect ingredient for desserts or smoothies. Eggfruit is a tropical treat native to Central America, where it’s enjoyed in both sweet and savory dishes.

Elephant Apple

With its tough, spiky shell and tangy, fibrous pulp, the elephant apple is an intriguing fruit native to Southeast Asia. Its tart flavor makes it a popular choice in curries and chutneys, where it adds a refreshing sharpness. The elephant apple’s unique appearance and taste make it a favorite in traditional Indian and Thai cuisine.

Emu Berry Fruit

Native to Australia, the emu berry is a small, red fruit known for its sweet and slightly tangy flavor. It’s a traditional favorite, often enjoyed fresh or used in desserts and preserves.

Enterprise Apple

A modern variety developed for its deep red skin and crisp texture, the Enterprise apple is perfect for those who enjoy a tart, refreshing bite. This versatile apple is equally good at home in a fruit bowl, baked into pies, or pressed into cider. Its vibrant color and robust flavor make it a standout among apple varieties.

Eggplant

Technically, eggplant is a fruit, but it is often treated as a vegetable in cooking. This glossy, purple fruit has a mild, slightly bitter flavor and a spongy texture that absorbs spices and sauces beautifully. From ratatouille to baba ganoush, eggplant adapts to a variety of dishes and cooking methods.

Etrog

The etrog, a citrus fruit resembling a large, bumpy lemon, holds deep cultural significance in Jewish rituals. With a thick rind and a fragrant, floral aroma, it’s often candied or used in preserves. Its unique scent and rich history make the etrog a cherished ingredient, especially during the Jewish festival of Sukkot.

Evergreen Huckleberry

Native to the Pacific Northwest, the evergreen huckleberry is a small, dark purple fruit with a tart yet sweet flavor. These berries are often used in pies, jams, and sauces, where their vibrant taste shines. Harvested from wild, evergreen shrubs, they are a treasured find for foragers and food lovers alike.

Early Gold Mango

Known for its early ripening and bright yellow skin, the Early Gold mango is a tropical delight. Its sweet, juicy flesh is perfect for enjoying fresh, blending into smoothies, or slicing into salads. This variety is celebrated for its smooth texture and vibrant flavor, making it a favorite in tropical regions.

Early Girl Tomato

The Early Girl tomato is a garden favorite, prized for its early harvest and sweet, juicy flavor. These small, round tomatoes are perfect for salads, sandwiches, or eating fresh off the vine. With its fast-growing reputation, the Early Girl brings a burst of summer to any dish.

Elephant Ear Fig

This unique fig variety is known for its large, heart-shaped leaves and small, sweet fruits. The figs have a soft, chewy texture and a honey-like flavor that makes them perfect for snacking or adding to desserts. Grown in warm climates, the elephant ear fig is a delicious treat with a striking appearance.

Eastern Hawthorn

Eastern hawthorn berries are small, red, and slightly bitter, often used in traditional teas, jellies, and as a natural food coloring. These berries are a staple in various cultural cuisines, where their unique flavor adds a distinctive note to both sweet and savory dishes.

Emblica

Also known as Indian gooseberry, Emblica is a small, round fruit with a sour, astringent taste. It’s a staple in traditional Indian cooking, adding a sharp, tangy flavor to chutneys, pickles, and beverages. The fruit’s puckering tartness is balanced beautifully in culinary creations across South Asia.

Elands Sour Fig

Native to South Africa, the elands sour fig is a small, succulent fruit with a tangy flavor. The fruit of this succulent is commonly dried or made into jams, offering a refreshing sweet and sour taste. The Elands sour fig is a beloved ingredient in South African cuisine, celebrated for its versatility and unique taste.

Ensete

Ensete, also known as false banana, is a staple food in some parts of Africa. Unlike its banana relative, the ensete is harvested for its starchy, dense fruit, which is cooked before eating. Its mild flavor and versatile texture make it an essential ingredient in various traditional African dishes.

Entawak

Also called snake fruit, this tropical fruit is native to Borneo. It has a spiky exterior and sweet, creamy flesh inside. Entawak is often eaten fresh, offering a rich, custard-like flavor that fruit enthusiasts love.

European Pear

The European pear, also commonly referred to as the “common pear, ” is the most widely grown pear species globally. It is a classic fruit with a smooth, buttery texture and a sweet, juicy flavor that becomes more pronounced as it ripens. Often enjoyed fresh, in salads, or paired with cheese, this pear is a staple in many kitchens.