Although a native of Brazil, passionfruit is grown in many other countries where the climate is warm and there is little risk of frost. It is a small, round pulpy fruit with small black edible seeds and a tough purple skin.
Passionfruit is usually considered a summer fruit, although it is available year-round. Passionfruit pulp can be purchased tinned or frozen, and any surplus of home production may be frozen in small quantities for up to 1 year – small ice cube trays are perfect; when frozen transfer to freezer bags.
Passionfruit is a traditional garnish for Pavlova, and there are few fruits whose flavour is not enhanced by passionfruit. In summer, it goes beautifully with fresh or cooked peaches, as well as nectarines and rockmelon (cantaloupe); and in autumn, with fresh sliced or poached pears.