Java Plum in Tagalog is spelled duhat.
If you’ve ever tasted duhat, you know it’s a fruit that’s as unique as it is delicious. Popular in many parts of the Philippines, duhat is known for its deep purple color and sweet-tart flavor that leaves a slight stain on the tongue.
Beyond being a favorite childhood snack, duhat is valued for its versatility in Filipino cuisine and its impressive health benefits. It can be eaten fresh, turned into juice, or used in desserts and preserves.
What Is Java Plum?
Java Plum, locally known as duhat, is a small oval-shaped tropical fruit that grows on the Syzygium cumini tree.
Its scientific name is Syzygium cumini.
The fruit is native to South and Southeast Asia and is also commonly called Jamun. When unripe, it is green, but it turns deep purple to almost black as it matures.
Color: Dark purple to black when ripe
Taste: Sweet-tart with a slightly astringent finish
Common Nickname: Jamun
Java Plum Vocabulary Words
Below is a vocabulary chart of common English words related to Java Plum and their Tagalog translations.
| # | English | Tagalog |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Java Plum | Duhat |
| 2 | Fruit | Prutas |
| 3 | Sweet | Matamis |
| 4 | Sour | Maasim |
| 5 | Seed | Buto |
| 6 | Tree | Puno |
| 7 | Juice | Katas |
| 8 | Jam | Matamis na palaman |
| 9 | Pickle | Atsara |
| 10 | Market | Palengke |
| 11 | Harvest | Ani |
| 12 | Fiber | Hibla |
| 13 | Vitamin C | Bitamina C |
| 14 | Healthy | Masustansya |
| 15 | Antioxidant | Antioxidant |
| 16 | Purple | Lila |
| 17 | Tropical | Tropikal |
| 18 | Fresh | Sariwa |
| 19 | Smoothie | Inuming prutas |
| 20 | Dessert | Panghimagas |
How Is Java Plum Used?
Java Plum is enjoyed in many simple and delicious ways.
1. Eaten Fresh
The most common way to enjoy duhat is fresh.
- Washed thoroughly
- Eaten whole
- Seed removed after biting
It’s a refreshing snack, especially during hot summer days.
2. Made into Juice
Duhat is often blended into juice.
- Mixed with water
- Sweetened with sugar or honey
- Served chilled
This creates a cooling and tangy drink.
3. Used in Filipino Desserts
Duhat is sometimes added to Halo-halo.
Its tangy flavor balances the sweetness of other ingredients.
4. Made into Jam or Jelly
The fruit can be cooked down with sugar.
- Spread on bread
- Used in pastries
- Added to cakes
This enhances its sweetness and extends shelf life.
5. Pickled When Unripe
Unripe duhat can be pickled.
- Soaked in vinegar
- Mixed with salt and sugar
This results in a tangy side dish for rice meals.
Health Benefits of Java Plum
Java Plum is packed with nutrients and beneficial compounds.
Rich in Antioxidants
Helps protect the body from oxidative stress.
Supports Digestive Health
High fiber content promotes regular digestion.
Helps Control Blood Sugar
Traditionally used to help manage blood sugar levels.
Boosts Immune System
Contains Vitamin C that supports immunity.
Improves Heart Health
May help reduce bad cholesterol levels.
Supports Healthy Skin
Antioxidants help maintain youthful-looking skin.
How to Use Java Plum at Home
Here are simple ways to enjoy duhat at home:
Method 1: Wash and eat fresh as a snack.
Method 2: Blend into juice or smoothies.
Method 3: Cook into jam or jelly.
Method 4: Add to desserts like halo-halo.
Method 5: Pickle unripe fruit for a savory side dish.
Commonly Used Example Phrases in Tagalog
Here are 10 everyday sentences using duhat:
- I bought fresh duhat at the market.
Bumili ako ng sariwang duhat sa palengke. - Duhat tastes sweet and sour.
Matamis at maasim ang duhat. - The duhat tree is tall.
Mataas ang puno ng duhat. - My hands turned purple after eating duhat.
Naging lila ang aking kamay pagkatapos kumain ng duhat. - I like duhat juice.
Gusto ko ang katas ng duhat. - Duhat is in season this summer.
Panahon ng duhat tuwing tag-init. - Peel and remove the seed of the duhat.
Tanggalin ang buto ng duhat bago kainin. - Duhat is healthy and nutritious.
Masustansya at mabuti sa kalusugan ang duhat. - We harvested duhat from our backyard.
Umanni kami ng duhat sa aming bakuran. - Duhat is popular in the Philippines.
Sikat ang duhat sa Pilipinas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is Java Plum in Tagalog?
Java Plum in Tagalog is called duhat.
2. What is the scientific name of Java Plum?
Its scientific name is Syzygium cumini.
3. Can it replace something similar?
It can substitute other tart fruits in juices and desserts.
4. Is it healthy?
Yes. It is rich in antioxidants, fiber, and Vitamin C.
5. How do you prepare or use it?
Wash thoroughly, remove the seed, and eat fresh or use in drinks and desserts.
Conclusion
Java Plum, known locally as duhat, is a flavorful tropical fruit loved for its sweet-tart taste and deep purple color. It holds a special place in Filipino food culture, especially during summer.
From fresh snacks to juices and desserts, duhat offers both delicious flavor and impressive health benefits, making it a valuable addition to everyday meals.

