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In the vast world of botanical intricacies, the classification of fruits and vegetables often eludes common understanding. In the eyes of botanists, the term "vegetable" is often too casually used to describe a wide range of plant parts that we incorporate into our daily meals.
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However, the true essence of a vegetable is tied to its culinary usage rather than its botanical identity. Botanically speaking, a vegetable is any part of a plant consumed by humans, but when it comes to fruits, the definition becomes more complex.
Here are seven such fruits that are predominately known and popularised as vegetables but are actually fruits in their botanical senses.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes, commonly perceived as vegetables, are, botanically speaking, fruits. Classified as berries, they develop from the ovary of a flower and contain seeds. Despite culinary applications in savoury dishes, the tomato's scientific definition as a fruit arises from its reproductive structure. This paradox highlights the fascinating interplay between culinary tradition and botanical classification, emphasising that the true nature of tomatoes aligns with that of fruits rather than vegetables.
Bell Peppers
Belonging to the Capsicum genus, bell peppers, even though they are widely known as veggies, are actually botanical fruits. These come in various vibrant colours, each offering a distinct flavour profile. Packed with vitamins A and C, bell peppers are not only nutritious but also add a sweet, crunchy element to dishes. Whether sliced in salads, sautéed in stir-fries, or roasted for a smoky depth, these fruit-like vegetables contribute versatility and a burst of colour to a wide array of culinary creations.
Cucumbers
They are often perceived as vegetables but they are botanically classified as fruits. These green, elongated delights belong to the gourd family and develop from the ovaries of the cucumber flower. With a high water content, cucumbers offer refreshing crispness and a mild flavour. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, they contribute to hydration, aid digestion, and promote skin health.
Olives
Olives, often mistaken for vegetables, are botanical fruits from the olive tree (Olea europaea). Harvested for their oil and culinary versatility, these small, oval wonders are technically drupes, not vegetables. Encased in a fleshy outer layer, the pit or seed lies within, defining them as fruits. Packed with healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, olives are a Mediterranean culinary staple, elevating dishes with their distinct flavours and contributing to a heart-healthy diet.
Avocados
Originating from Central America, avocados belong to the berry family and grow on flowering trees. Renowned for their creamy texture and rich, nutty flavour, these fruits are packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, vitamins, and minerals. Despite their savoury culinary applications, avocados' true identity as fruits adds a delightful twist to their versatile nature, blurring the lines between conventional categorizations in the world of produce.
Pumpkin
Pumpkin, often regarded as a vegetable due to its savoury applications, is botanically classified as a fruit. Belonging to the gourd family, pumpkins develop from the flower of the pumpkin plant and contain seeds. Renowned for their vibrant hues and versatile culinary uses, pumpkins offer a sweet and earthy flavour profile. Beyond savoury dishes, they shine in desserts, showcasing their dual nature as both a culinary staple and a fruit with seeds encapsulated within their fleshy interior.
Brinjal
Brinjal, scientifically known as Solanum melongena,even though known as a vegetable, is, in fact, a fruit. Belonging to the nightshade family, it showcases a spectrum of vibrant colours and shapes, ranging from small, round varieties to elongated forms. With a mild, slightly bitter taste, brinjal is a versatile ingredient in various cuisines worldwide. Rich in fibre, vitamins, and antioxidants, this fruit offers not only culinary delight but also health benefits, making it a valuable addition to diverse dishes.
