What are these small green fruits?
During the late summer months of fruiting season, it is common to see adults and children selling whole bunches of “quénettes” on the side of the road and even directly to cars stuck in traffic.
The small, round and green plum-like fruits are officially known as mamoncillos (Spanish) or genips (Melicoccus bijugatus) from the Ginepa Tree native to Northern South America, but nevermind that because on both sides of the island they are called by their French name: “quénettes” or even “Kénèt” in Creole.
Once the thin green shell is cracked, the gelatinous flesh of the fruit around the seed is edible. Ripe kénèts are sweet and juicy with a slight tart taste. If they are not yet ripe, the tartness is more prominent. Kénèts are full of goodness; rich in fiber and iron, vitamins A, C, phosphorus and calcium!