My neighbor gave me a bag of these… anyone know what they are? How do you eat them?

Common Possibilities People Often Receive

Many people in similar situations discover their mystery items are one of these:

• Fresh figs – Soft, sweet, and eaten raw or cooked
• Persimmons – Best eaten fully ripe
• Loquats – Tangy, juicy fruit with large seeds
• Jerusalem artichokes (sunchokes) – Nutty root vegetables eaten cooked
• Chestnuts or walnuts – Usually need roasting or shelling
• Garden squash or cucumbers – Some varieties look unusual but taste familiar

How Do You Eat Them?

Once identified, how you eat them depends on what they are. Some general guidelines:

• Fruits are often eaten raw, peeled if needed, or added to salads and desserts
• Root vegetables are best roasted, boiled, or sautéed
• Nuts usually need shelling and sometimes roasting
• Certain fruits must be fully ripe before eating to avoid bitterness

Never eat anything raw unless you’re sure it’s meant to be eaten that way.

A Gift Worth Appreciating

Beyond the mystery, receiving food from a neighbor is a small but meaningful gesture. It’s a sign of trust, community, and generosity. Even if you’re unsure what to do with it at first, these moments often lead to new recipes, new flavors, and even new friendships.