David Karp reveals secrets to finding Asia's finest fruits

In an exploration of the fruit expert David Karp, also known as the Fruit Detective, he shares his extensive knowledge regarding the best produce available globally. Based in the United States, Karp serves as an assistant specialist in the department of botany and plant sciences at the University of California, Riverside, while simultaneously managing a stone fruit orchard in Morgan Hill, California. His expertise extends beyond just cultivation; he actively searches for exceptional varieties of fruits around the world, particularly highlighting those from regions known for specific produce. Karp emphasizes the importance of understanding produce and actively seeking out the best varieties during their peak season. He specifically points out that apples, such as Pippin and Ashmead's, can be found from September to December in non-tropical locations, with certain varieties available from Spain between September and November. He also showcases Duke cherries, ripening around June and July, as a prime example of what to look for when in season. His fervor for locating high-quality fruits is underscored by his advocacy for the best citrus fruits, which may be sourced from Florida, France, and Italy. Among the fruits he champions are grapefruits, specifically, the Star Ruby variety, which can be enjoyed if sourced from the Indian River in Florida between December and February. He additionally recommends those daring to embrace a little more challenge by taking a trip to Southern France or Italy for muscat grapes around late summer. Similarly, Karp advises fruit lovers to seek out lychees during their peak season in Southern China during May and June. Karp does not shy away from recognizing the treasures found in more exotic regions such as India and Thailand for mangos, along with the numerous citrus varieties, including the coveted Nadorcott mandarins from Morocco. Throughout his journey into the world of fruit, he constantly reminds us to appreciate the nuances of flavor and to be cautious of inefficiencies like seeds or yield. His dedication to uncovering the best fruit varieties has led him to proclaim certain fruits, like the greengages found in Southwestern France, to be the best in the world. In offering up his bounty of knowledge, he aims to guide consumers toward exceptional flavor and joy in their fruit selections.