Marula
Fruits
Nutri-ScoreA

Marula

Sclerocarya birrea

Clinical Encyclopedia

SM
Nutri-Score & Health Summary

Marula provides 100 kcal, 1.5g of protein, 24g of carbohydrates, and 3g of fiber per 100g. With a Nutri-Score grade 'A', it is a highly recommended option for nutrient density.

Marula is a tropical fruit native to Africa, known for its high vitamin C content and unique flavor. It is often used in beverages and traditional dishes.

Also known as:
Marula fruitMarula tree
Scientific NameSclerocarya birrea
Region of OriginSouthern Africa

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories100 kcal
Water
78%
Fiber3g
Total25.8g
Protein
1.5g(6%)
Fats
0.3g(1%)
Carbohydrates
24g(93%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin C30 mg (33%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Potassium200 mg (4%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

Rich in antioxidants, marula helps combat oxidative stress and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
High vitamin C content supports immune function and skin health.
Contains healthy fats that may promote heart health.
The fiber content aids in digestion and promotes gut health.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Excessive consumption may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort due to high fiber content.
!Individuals with allergies to similar fruits should exercise caution.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best enjoyed fresh or as a juice. Can also be used in smoothies or desserts.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose marula fruits that are slightly soft to the touch and have a fragrant aroma. Avoid fruits with blemishes or signs of spoilage.

How to Store

Store marula in a cool, dry place or refrigerate to maintain freshness. Consume within a few days for the best flavor.

Myths vs Realities

MythMarula fruit is only used for making alcohol.
RealityWhile marula is used in alcoholic beverages, it is also enjoyed fresh and in various culinary dishes.
MythMarula is not nutritious.
RealityMarula is highly nutritious, rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and healthy fats.
MythAll parts of the marula tree are edible.
RealityWhile the fruit is edible, other parts of the tree may not be safe for consumption.

Healthy Recipes

Marula and Quinoa Salad

A refreshing salad combining the nutty flavor of quinoa with the sweet, tangy notes of marula fruit, perfect for a light lunch or side dish.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1/2 cup marula pulp
  • 1/4 cup diced cucumber
  • 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, marula pulp, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Pour the dressing over the salad, toss gently, and serve chilled.

Marula Smoothie Bowl

A vibrant and nutritious smoothie bowl featuring marula, banana, and spinach, topped with seeds and nuts for a crunchy finish.

Ingredients
  • 1 ripe banana
  • 1/2 cup marula pulp
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup almond milk
  • 2 tablespoons chia seeds
  • 1 tablespoon almond butter
  • Toppings: sliced fruits, nuts, and seeds
Instructions
  1. 1. In a blender, combine banana, marula pulp, spinach, almond milk, and almond butter until smooth.
  2. 2. Pour the smoothie into a bowl and top with sliced fruits, nuts, and seeds.
  3. 3. Enjoy immediately for a refreshing breakfast or snack.

Grilled Marula Chicken Skewers

Juicy chicken skewers marinated in a zesty marula sauce, grilled to perfection for a healthy and flavorful meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
  • 1/2 cup marula pulp
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix marula pulp, soy sauce, honey, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
  2. 2. Add chicken cubes to the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
  3. 3. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers and grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked.

Marula Chia Pudding

A creamy and nutritious chia pudding infused with marula, perfect for breakfast or a healthy dessert.

Ingredients
  • 1/4 cup chia seeds
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 1/2 cup marula pulp
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • Fresh fruits for topping
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix chia seeds, coconut milk, marula pulp, and maple syrup until well combined.
  2. 2. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until the mixture thickens.
  3. 3. Serve topped with fresh fruits of your choice.

Marula Energy Bites

Nutritious energy bites made with marula, oats, and nuts, perfect for a quick snack on the go.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup marula pulp
  • 1/4 cup almond butter
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup chopped nuts
  • 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
Instructions
  1. 1. In a mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, marula pulp, almond butter, honey, chopped nuts, and chocolate chips.
  2. 2. Mix well until all ingredients are combined, then refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  3. 3. Form into small balls and store in an airtight container.

Marula Infused Yogurt Parfait

A delightful yogurt parfait layered with marula pulp, granola, and fresh berries for a balanced breakfast.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cup marula pulp
  • 1/2 cup granola
  • 1/2 cup mixed berries
  • Honey for drizzling
Instructions
  1. 1. In a glass, layer Greek yogurt, marula pulp, granola, and mixed berries.
  2. 2. Repeat the layers until the glass is full.
  3. 3. Drizzle with honey and serve immediately.

Marula and Spinach Smoothie

A nutrient-packed smoothie that combines the sweetness of marula with the health benefits of spinach and avocado.

Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup marula pulp
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • 1/2 avocado
  • 1 cup almond milk
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • Ice cubes
Instructions
  1. 1. Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.
  2. 2. Adjust sweetness with honey if desired.
  3. 3. Serve chilled in a tall glass.

Marula and Sweet Potato Mash

A creamy and flavorful mash of sweet potatoes and marula, perfect as a side dish to complement any meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1/2 cup marula pulp
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Boil sweet potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes.
  2. 2. Drain and mash the sweet potatoes with marula pulp, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Serve warm as a delicious side dish.

Marula Salsa

A vibrant salsa made with fresh marula, tomatoes, and herbs, perfect for topping grilled fish or chicken.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup marula pulp
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup chopped red onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine marula pulp, diced tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and salt.
  2. 2. Mix well and let sit for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  3. 3. Serve as a topping or dip with tortilla chips.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the health benefits of marula?

Marula is rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and healthy fats, which can support immune health, skin health, and heart health.

How can I incorporate marula into my diet?

You can eat marula fresh, use it in smoothies, or enjoy it as juice.

Is marula safe for everyone to eat?

Generally, marula is safe for most people, but those with allergies to similar fruits should be cautious.

What is the glycemic index of marula?

Marula has a low glycemic index of 30, making it a suitable fruit for those managing blood sugar levels.

Can marula help with digestion?

Yes, the fiber content in marula can aid digestion and promote gut health.

Where can I buy marula fruit?

Marula can often be found in specialty grocery stores or markets that sell exotic fruits.

How should I store marula?

Store marula in a cool, dry place or refrigerate to extend its freshness.

Are there any side effects of eating marula?

In moderation, marula is safe, but excessive consumption may cause gastrointestinal discomfort.