If you’re a fan of exotic fruits, then you’ll definitely want to add ice apple to your must-try list. Also known as nungu in Tamil, taal in Bengali, and tadgola in Hindi, ice apple is a refreshing and delicious fruit that’s perfect for beating the summer heat.
But when and where can you find this exotic fruit? In this guide, we’ll give you all the details you need to know.
What are Ice Apples?
Ice apples, also known as Nungu in Tamil or Taal in Bengali, are a type of fruit that grows on the Borassus Flabellifer tree. This tree is native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia and can grow up to 30 meters tall.
The fruit is usually harvested during the summer months when it is still young and has a jelly-like texture. Ice apples are small, round, and translucent and are usually served chilled.
They have a mild, sweet taste and are very refreshing, making them the perfect summer treat.
Benefits of Ice Apples
Ice apples are not only delicious, but they also have several health benefits. They are low in calories and high in fiber, making them an excellent choice for those who want to maintain a healthy diet.
They are also rich in vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin B, potassium, and calcium. Additionally, they are a natural diuretic, which means that they can help flush out toxins from the body and reduce the risk of kidney stones.
When is Ice Apple Season?
Ice apple is a seasonal fruit that’s typically available during the summer months. The exact timing of ice apple season can vary depending on the region, but it usually starts in May and lasts through July or August.
In some places, you may be able to find ice apple outside of these months, but it’s generally considered to be a summer fruit.
Where Can You Find Ice Apple?
Ice apple is native to tropical regions and is commonly found in countries such as India, Sri Lanka, and Malaysia. If you’re traveling to these areas during the summer months, you’ll likely be able to find ice apple at local markets and street vendors.
In India, ice apple is particularly popular in the southern states of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.
If you’re not in a region where ice apple grows, you may still be able to find it at specialty grocery stores or online retailers. However, be prepared to pay a premium for this exotic fruit, as it can be quite expensive outside of its native growing regions.
How to Enjoy Ice Apple
If you’re lucky enough to find fresh ice apple, there are many ways to enjoy it. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Eat it fresh: The simplest way to enjoy ice apple is to eat it fresh. Simply peel off the outer layers to reveal the translucent, jelly-like flesh inside. You can eat it as is, or sprinkle some salt and chili powder on top for extra flavor.
- Make a drink: Ice apple juice is a popular summer beverage in many parts of India and Southeast Asia. To make it, blend fresh ice apple with some water and sugar, and strain the mixture to remove any fibers.
- Use it in desserts: Ice apple can be used as a topping for ice cream or shaved ice, or mixed into desserts like fruit salads and puddings. Its mild, slightly sweet flavor pairs well with other fruits like mango, pineapple, and coconut.
Final Thoughts
Ice apple is a delicious and refreshing fruit that’s worth trying if you’re a fan of tropical fruits. By knowing when and where to find it, and how to enjoy it, you can add some excitement to your summer fruit selection. So keep an eye out for ice apple during its peak season, and give it a try – you might just discover your new favorite fruit!
How to Choose and Eat Ice Apple
When choosing ice apple, look for fruits that are firm and heavy for their size. The outer shell should be smooth and slightly yellow, while the interior flesh should be translucent and jelly-like. Avoid fruits with soft or mushy flesh, as this is a sign that they’re overripe.
To eat ice apple, start by cutting off the top of the fruit with a sharp knife. Then, use a spoon or your fingers to scoop out the jelly-like flesh from inside the fruit.
The flesh is sweet and refreshing, with a texture that’s similar to coconut water. Some people also enjoy adding ice apple to smoothies or desserts for an extra burst of flavor.
Read also: The Winter Hami Melon
In Conclusion
Ice apple is a delicious and refreshing fruit that’s perfect for summertime snacking. While it may not be available year-round, it’s definitely worth trying if you can get your hands on it.
Just remember to choose fruits that are firm and heavy, and avoid any that are mushy or overripe. With this guide, you’ll be ready to enjoy all the benefits of this exotic fruit.