Dimocarpus longan, in China known as Eye of Dragon, is an evergreen tree of the Sapindaceae family. Fruits contain vitamin C, Vitamins of group B (thiamine, riboflavin, niacin), calcium, iron and phosphorus, as well as a number of useful amino acids. In traditional Chinese medicine it is used as a sedative.
The fragrant, sweet pulp of dried longan is a wonderful exotic snack. You can eat it dry or in brewed form.
Brewing suggestions. put 10 g of dried fruits in a thermos, pour boiling water (200-350 ml), close the lid and let it brew. After 15-20 minutes you will get a clear broth of pear-yellowish hue with wonderful nutty-biscuit aroma and sweetish taste. Delicate softened fruit are still quite edible.
