Lychee are a type of soapberry and the only fruit of its kind in the genus Litchi. Lychee have a hard peel that houses sweet white flesh with a rich floral flavor cut with subtle notes of fresh melon. These fruits are related to longan and rambutan although their flavors are not similar. Lychee are one of the most beloved fruits in Asia and are ubiquitous as an ingredient and flavoring in drinks, confections, and desserts. Black leaf lychee are sweet, mild, and very juicy. They have a smooth peel that are mostly devoid of spikes.
Uses: Always wash and and peel lychee before consumption as the skin can be bitter and astringent. The soft white flesh can be easily separated by hand from the shiny seed within.