Longans
I just had a most satisfying can of logans heavily soaked in sweet syrups and ice cubes. Absolutely yummy :)~
Sometimes I wonder why longans are called long-ans. I mean, just take a look at them... In what possible ways are they ever considered long? They are round and juicy!!!
Ok, yes of course I know 'longans' is the hanyu pinyin translation of 龙眼; literally dragon's eyes. But but then again, do they really resemble that of a dragon's eyes?
??
A google search is what I need now... heh.
So this is what I discovered...
The scientific name is Dimocarpus longan
Hmm, apparently longans originated from China and through waves of immigration, this exotic fruit (cousin of rambutans and lychees) made its appearance in other parts of the world, mostly Southeast Asia.
And they are also used in Chinese medicine (usually in the dried form) to relieve stress, boost the immune system, enrich the blood and increase vigour. And they are reputed to bring good fortune!
Hmm, but why the name longan? I wonder. Any idea? Pray tell if you do!!
Update
In Malaysia the longans are also called mata kuching, literally, cat's eye...
So are they now dragon's or cat's eyes? Dragon and Cat - Huge difference you know!
Sometimes I wonder why longans are called long-ans. I mean, just take a look at them... In what possible ways are they ever considered long? They are round and juicy!!!
Ok, yes of course I know 'longans' is the hanyu pinyin translation of 龙眼; literally dragon's eyes. But but then again, do they really resemble that of a dragon's eyes?
??
A google search is what I need now... heh.
So this is what I discovered...
The scientific name is Dimocarpus longan
Hmm, apparently longans originated from China and through waves of immigration, this exotic fruit (cousin of rambutans and lychees) made its appearance in other parts of the world, mostly Southeast Asia.
And they are also used in Chinese medicine (usually in the dried form) to relieve stress, boost the immune system, enrich the blood and increase vigour. And they are reputed to bring good fortune!
Hmm, but why the name longan? I wonder. Any idea? Pray tell if you do!!
Update
In Malaysia the longans are also called mata kuching, literally, cat's eye...
So are they now dragon's or cat's eyes? Dragon and Cat - Huge difference you know!
posted by Shazza at Tuesday, March 29, 2005
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