When we think of summer fruits, mangoes usually steal the spotlight. But India’s diverse climate provides a treasure trove of lesser-known seasonal fruits, each offering unique flavors and incredible health benefits. From the tangy phalsa to the cooling tadgola, here are some delicious summer fruits you may not have heard of but should definitely try!
1. Phalsa: The Tangy Heat-Buster
Phalsa (Grewia asiatica) is a small, round fruit that turns deep purple when ripe. It has a distinctive sweet and tangy taste, making it a favorite for refreshing summer drinks. Rich in antioxidants and vitamins A and C, phalsa is known to combat heat strokes and digestive issues. Traditionally, it is consumed with a sprinkle of salt or turned into cooling sherbets.
2. Kokum: The Goan Superfruit
Native to the Western Ghats, kokum (Garcinia indica) is a tropical fruit renowned for its vibrant red color and sour flavor. Often used in Goan and Maharashtrian cuisine, it adds a tangy twist to dishes. Beyond its culinary uses, kokum is celebrated for its cooling properties and is transformed into the popular kokum sherbet, a perfect antidote to the summer heat.
3. Tadgola (Ice Apple): Nature’s Hydration Booster
Also known as nungu in Tamil Nadu, ice apple is the translucent, jelly-like fruit of the sugar palm tree. With a mildly sweet flavor and a texture reminiscent of lychee, it is a natural coolant, making it perfect for hot summer days. Packed with minerals like potassium and sodium, tadgola helps maintain electrolyte balance and keeps the body hydrated.
4. Jujube (Ber): The Vitamin C Powerhouse
Commonly known as ber (Ziziphus jujuba) in India, jujube is a small, round fruit that transitions from green to reddish-brown as it ripens. It boasts a crisp texture and a sweet-tart flavor. Jujubes are low in calories but high in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, making them great for immune support and skin health. They can be enjoyed fresh, dried, or even candied.
5. Bael: The Digestive Healer
Also called wood apple, bael (Aegle marmelos) is a hard-shelled fruit with a sweet, aromatic pulp. It is traditionally consumed as juice, known to aid digestion and act as a natural coolant. Rich in fiber, bael supports gut health and prevents digestive issues. In many Indian households, bael sherbet is a staple during the scorching summer months.
6. Jamun: The Blood Sugar Regulator
Jamun (Syzygium cumini) is an oblong, deep purple fruit that is both sweet and astringent. Celebrated for its unique taste, jamun is particularly beneficial for regulating blood sugar levels. It is a rich source of iron, vitamin C, and antioxidants, making it a powerhouse of nutrition. Often enjoyed with a sprinkle of salt, jamun is a summer favorite across India.
Embrace the Variety of Indian Summer Fruits
While mangoes remain the undisputed king of summer fruits, India’s lesser-known fruits offer an exciting mix of flavors and health benefits. Incorporating these seasonal gems into your diet can keep you refreshed, hydrated, and nourished throughout the sweltering summer months. So, the next time you spot phalsa, kokum, or bael at your local market, don’t hesitate to give them a try!