The black zapote fruit got its name because the inside pulp is actually black like mud, but don’t be put off by the unusual color because the fruit is succulent and sweet. If you are in a place where you can get them, buy the ones that feel so soft as to seem almost spoiled, because these have the best flavor. The creamy pulp blends very nicely with the fresh orange juice and is a classic combination

Ingredients

　　1/2 pound black zapote fruits

　　3/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice

　　1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice

　　1/2 cup sugar

　　1/4 cup rum (optional)

　　Orange segments, for garnish

　　Whipped cream, for garnish

　　Cut the zapotes in half and scoop out the pulp (discard the skin and any seeds). Combine with the orange juice, lime juice, sugar, and rum in a blender or mix by hand in a bowl until very smooth. Pour into 8 glasses or serving dishes and refrigerate, covered, for at least 3 hours so the flavors blend together. Garnish with a few orange segments and a dollop of whipped cream and serve.

　　Reprinted with permission from My Sweet Mexico: Recipes for Authentic Pastries, Breads, Candies, Beverages, and Frozen Treats © 2010 by Fany Gerson. Photographs by Ed Anderson. Published by Ten Speed Press, an imprint of Penguin Random House.Buy the full book from Penguin Random House, Amazon, or Bookshop.