Introductory Overview
The delicious and nutrient packed exotic fruits of kerala are easily available because of the states wonderful tropical climate. The climate makes it easier for the locals to expand their diet both qualitatively and quantitatively by enabling access to a huge variety of fruits.
In this article we will describe in detail, the most famous fruits of kerala, the reasons that make them significant in the diets of the locals and the health benefits they offer. This will provide you the opportunity to understand the agricultural practices involved and the culinary practices around these fruits, thereby enhancing the ease with which they can be used in your diet.
Laying Down the Essentials
The fruits of kerala are well known to offer a rich diet to the keralians. Some of the most Gurian fruits available are Mangoes, Bananas, Coconuts and Jackfruits. These are enriched with vitamins, minerals, nutrients and most importantly, antioxidants. All of these foods together prove to be the foundation of a balanced diet.
1. Banana (Nendran)
In the southern Indian state of Kerala, the Nendan banana is a popular variety and is regarded as the staple fruit for the locals. It has potassium in it, which is beneficial for the heart, thus making it a good energy source for those that might need to exert themselves whether athletically or otherwise.
Traditionally, bananas are eaten raw but can also be cooked to prepare traditional Kerala dishes such as ‘avial’ and ‘pazham pori’ which are fried bananas. Their culinary versatility allows bananas to make their way into Kerala’s rich cuisine.
Health Benefits:
Rich in potassium, it helps to regulate blood pressure.
Energizes and bolsters the immune system.
Aids digestion due to high fiber content.
2. Mango (Kesar & Langda)
Also known as the King of Fruits, Mangoes are now in season in Kerale and can be found in various forms in the heart of the South India. Kesar and Langda are the two most famous varieties in Kerala. Their bold sweet-tangy flavor makes them a hit with both tourists and local people.
Mangoes contain Vitamin C, and A, which is essential for boosting immune functions and improving eye-sight and they are also a good source of fiber which helps in proper digestion.
Health Benefits
– Provides a high quantity of immunoactive vitamins A, C, and E.
– Aids curing vision-related ailments.
– Helps in skin maintenance and digestion.
3. Jackfruit (Chakka)
Jackfruit is the largest fruit grower on trees. This highly nutritive fruit is an indigenous to Kerala. The meat is sweet and its fleshy interior has a texture that can substitute meat in vegan meals.
Jackfruit makes an excellent dish to improve vitamin C, fiber and potassium deficiencies. It is also served with Keralas traditional dishes of “chakka varuthathu” (fried jackfruit) and “chakka kootu” (curry of jackfruit).
Health Benefits:
– Good source of constipation free A and C
– Improvement in heart health and blood pressure also observe.
4. Papaya (Papai)
In the local language, Papaya is called Papai, it is a fruit cultivated in tropics and does well in the boon of kerala. The fruit that has a vibrant orange color is full of enzymes aiding digestion such as papain. In addition, it is known to be rich in C, antioxidants and fiber.
In Kerala, Papaya is used as salad, juice, and even smoothies but curries and some side dish also contain this fruit.
Health Benefits:
Aids in digestion through the inclusion of various enzymes.
Improves immune system function due to its high levels of antioxidants and vitamin C.
Proper skin and vision health maintenance.
5. Coconut (Coconut water and flesh)
Coconut is another notable fruit found in kerala. Though very refreshing, the water from the coconut offers instant energy due to its rich electrolytes. It is also very useful in cooking and baking. The flesh of the coconut contains healthy fats.
Coconut is used in the making of curries, chutneys, and desserts in keralan cuisine. It is usually consumed fresh with water in the raw form. It is also used in milking to prepare dishes which kerala is known for; rich and creamy.
Health benefits:
Is helpful in hydration due to its rich electrolyte content.
Contains MCT fats which helps with weight loss.
Results in lower inflammation while improving heart health.
6. Guava (Amra)
Amra or guava is a small round fruit with an impressive amount of vitamin C along with dietary fiber. Monsoon season makes this fruit popular. This is because it’s available in raw form, but the fruit can also be made into jams, juices or even desserts.
Guava has the ability to aid in enhancing skin condition and boosting immunity. Its high fiber content also helps with digestion.
Health Benefits:
Promotes the wellbeing of the digestive system due to the high content of dietary fiber
The rich source of vitamin C guava contains increases immunity.
Guava aids in skin conditions along with preventing signs of aging.
7. Pineapple (Ananas)
Another tropical fruit that is equally popular throughout Kerala is pineapple, or Ananas. It is adored as a summer delicacy, and its sweet, tangy, and juicy flesh is refreshing. Pineapple has anti-inflammatory benefits because of the enzyme bromelain it contains.
In salads, desserts, savory dishes like the famous “pineapple pachadi” which is a traditional sidebar in Kerala, guava is widely used throughout the state.
Health benefits:
Contains bromelain which helps in digestion.
Rich source of Vitamin C, promoting immunity.
Having anti-inflammation properties, helps to reduce swelling and pain.
How to include the fruits of Kerala in your diet
Striking a balance is necessary when it comes to fruits from Kerala. You can incorporate them into things like fruit salads, and curries, or savor them on their own. The goal is to use these fruits regularly as meals or snacks. You can start with adding sliced bananas with your breakfast cereal, drinking refreshing fresh coconut water mid-day, or preparing delectable mango smoothies to accompany nutritious meals.
Summarization
Primarily being known as an exotic tropical paradise, Kerala is home to a number of influences and impacts throughout its existence. From Coconuts to Papaya , rich in Vitamin C and good for boosting Immunity, the state also has sweet tropical fruits that assist in the betterment of lifestyle and overall fitness of a person.
In many ways Kerala is a paradise blessed with extraordinary gifts of nature, and the state is packed with festivities that denote the Dravidian culture. Warm climate makes the place suitable for tourism all year round, so when you happen to visit, make sure to really experience the delicious taste of nature that contributes towards a healthier lifestyle.
