Salpicón (Colombian Fruit Cocktail)

🧂 Ingredients

• 500g Assorted fresh fruits(A mix of at least 4-5 different fruits is recommended. Good options include: papaya, pineapple, watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew melon, mango, kiwi, strawberries, grapes, and apples. Ensure fruits are ripe but firm.)
• 2 cups (approx. 480ml) Freshly squeezed orange juice(Freshly squeezed juice provides the best flavor. If unavailable, use 100% pure orange juice without added sugar.)
• to taste Granulated sugar or sweetener(Start with 1-2 tablespoons and adjust based on the sweetness of the fruits and your preference. Honey or agave nectar can also be used.)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the fruits: Wash all fruits thoroughly. Peel, core, and seed them as necessary. Dice all fruits into uniform, bite-sized pieces, approximately 1-1.5 cm (about 1/2 inch) in size. Aim for consistency in size so they are easy to eat with a spoon.

   ⏱️ 15 minutes
2. 2

   Combine fruits and juice: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the diced assorted fruits. Pour the fresh orange juice over the fruits. Stir gently to coat all the fruit pieces without mashing them.

   ⏱️ 3 minutes
3. 3

   Sweeten and chill: Taste the mixture. If the fruits are not sweet enough or you prefer a sweeter cocktail, gradually add sugar (or your chosen sweetener), stirring until dissolved. Start with a small amount and add more as needed. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the salpicón to chill thoroughly. This step is crucial for the best flavor and refreshing quality.

   ⏱️ 5 minutes active, plus chilling time
4. 4

   Serve: Ladle the chilled salpicón into individual bowls or glasses. Ensure each serving gets a good mix of fruits and juice. Serve immediately as a refreshing dessert or snack.

   ⏱️ 2 minutes

💡 Pro Tips

• ✓For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a splash of lime juice or a few mint leaves.
• ✓The key to a great salpicón is using a variety of ripe, high-quality fruits. The natural sweetness and juices from the fruits are the primary flavor base.
• ✓This dish is a beloved street food classic in Colombia, often sold from carts and enjoyed on hot days.
• ✓Adjust the amount of orange juice based on how 'juicy' you want your salpicón to be. Some prefer it with more liquid, others with just enough to coat the fruit.

🔄 Variations

• For a creamier version, stir in a few tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk just before serving.
• Incorporate more exotic tropical fruits like passion fruit pulp, guava, or mamey sapote for a richer flavor profile.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of vanilla extract for a different aromatic dimension.

🥗 Nutrition

Per serving