One of the most popular ingredients in the local cuisine is passion fruit, and the islands are home to some of the best passion fruit cultivation in the world. Passion fruit is a tropical fruit that is native to the Azores and can be found growing wild throughout the islands. It is a climbing vine that loves humid climates and can be found growing up trees and trellises. In the Azores, the passion fruit is grown in greenhouses and on small farms.
Passion fruit is an incredibly versatile crop and can be used to make jams, juices, and desserts. It is also a popular ingredient in cocktails and smoothies. Passion fruit cultivation in the Azores is a labor-intensive process. It requires careful attention to the soil, cultivation techniques, and pruning practices. Passion fruit vines need to be pruned and trained to a trellis or other support structure so that they can grow up and out.
The soil also needs to be well drained and fertilized regularly. Harvesting the fruit is also an intensive process that requires skill and patience. The fruit must be harvested when it is ripe and still on the vine. The fruit is then carefully removed and placed in boxes or crates for transport. The passion fruit industry in the Azores is an important part of the local economy. The fruit is exported to other countries and used in a variety of food products. The passion fruit industry is also helping to support local farmers and create jobs in the region.