In the Mediterranean, the Carob tree has always been a local favorite—and not just because it’s a stunner in the landscape. For centuries, people have prized this tree for its unique fruit. Packed with vitamins, these pods are a secret weapon for making sweets and healthy snacks. Let’s dive into what makes this fruit so special.
Form and Characteristics of Carob
The fruit of the Carob tree is actually a legume. It grows in long, brown pods that look a bit like weathered leather hanging from the branches. But don’t let that tough exterior fool you; there’s a sweet secret hidden inside! These days, not everyone realizes just how versatile these pods really are.
Quick Facts at a Glance:
- Type: Legume
- Name: Carob
- Shape: Long pods
- Length: Up to 12 inches (30 cm)
- Texture: Leathery
- Ripening: Stays on the branch for several months
- Inside: Up to 15 seeds
Many gardeners actually love the “leather look” of the long pods. They have a rich texture that reminds you of a well-loved, high-quality leather bag. If you decide to plant a Carob tree in your own backyard, you’re in for a treat. Since the pods hang on the branches for months, you get to enjoy their unique look for a long time, rather than just a few short weeks.
Uses and Nutrients
Harvest season for Carob usually kicks off in September. A pro tip: you’ll want to pick them straight from the tree. Pods that have already fallen to the ground soak up moisture from the soil and can spoil pretty fast. Once harvested, the pods are left to fully ripen. They are nutritional powerhouses, loaded with Vitamin A, Vitamin B, Iron, and Calcium.
What’s inside?
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin B
- Iron
- Calcium
- Protein
Because the fruit is naturally very sweet, it’s often turned into a rich syrup that works as a fantastic sugar substitute. Since it’s virtually fat-free, it’s a popular choice for health-conscious diets. You’ll even find carob used for various medicinal purposes. Just keep in mind that to get the most out of those benefits, the pods need to be processed correctly!
