5 forgotten fruits of India, their benefits, and how to eat them

Fruits like apples, bananas, and mangoes are often talked about for their taste and nutrition. But did you know there are many other fruits that are lost in time but have been a part of human existence and also played a key role in Ayurveda in the past? These fruits are forgotten but are no less than superfoods loaded with benefits and culinary uses. In some parts of India, they are still celebrated in curries, pickles, and chutneys. Sounds interesting? Let us read more about these rare fruits and how to eat them.

It is one of the largest citrus fruits, which resembles a giant grapefruit but is sweeter, less acidic, and packed with nutrients. It is rich in vitamin C, aids digestion, and also contains potassium and antioxidants that help regulate blood pressure. It is low in calories and hydrating.
How to eat: Simply peel the ring, remove the membrane and consume it with a topping of black salt. It can be blended into juice with honey and ginger for a vitamin-packed drink. It also makes for a great pairing in salads along with cucumber, mint and peanuts.

Karonda is a small, sour fruit and is known for its sharp tang and medicinal properties. It is rich in iron and vitamin C, which helps boost hemoglobin and improve immunity. As per experts, traditionally it was used in Ayurvedic medicines for diabetes. It is also loaded with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

How to eat: Eat fresh with black salt or red chili powder. It is also used to make pickles along with mustard seeds and oil. One can also cook it and make sweet-spicy chutney using jaggery, oil, ginger, and spices. When fully ripe, it can be cooked into a sweet jam or jelly.

It is a tropical fruit with a distinct five-point star shape when sliced and it comes in both sweet and sour varieties. It is low in calories and rich in vitamin C, which boosts immunity. And the rich dietary fiber helps prevent constipation. It also contains polyphenols that fight oxidative stress.

How to eat: Simply wash a slice, and enjoy it with a sprinkle of black salt. It can be used to make a tangy chutney along with green chilies, garlic, and jaggery. It is also used in salads to add that extra sweet-sour bite.

It is a hard-shelled tropical fruit native to India and is revered in Ayurveda as well. It has a sweet, aromatic, and slightly tangy pulp that’s packed with vitamin C and antioxidants. It helps prevent heatstroke and dehydration in summer and acts as a natural remedy for constipation, gas, and IBS.
How to eat: It is best consumed in the form of juice/sharbat. Simply, break open the shell, scoop the pulp, mash with water, strain, and mix with jaggery, black salt, and a pinch of cardamom. It can be used to make chutney as well.

This large, round fruit has a tangy, fibrous pulp and is rich in vitamin C, which boosts immunity, fights infections, and supports healthy skin. Its high fiber aids digestion and helps prevent constipation. It also contains antioxidants that protect the body from oxidative stress.
​How to eat: It's often made into chutney, cooked with jaggery, ginger, and spices. In some areas, it's turned into pickles using mustard seeds and oil. When fully ripe, it can be blended into a tangy, refreshing drink with sugar and mint.