Dragon fruit is a widely consumed fruit in Southeast Asia, however it is not well known in India. The bright pink and scaly fruit, which is frequently found in the exotic fruit department of stores, may seem a little scary at first. It is a member of the cactus family, and the dragon-like metaphor is most likely a result of its scaly skin. When you overcome your inhibitions, though, you will find that it is a wonderful fruit that can be consumed in a variety of ways. It is also frequently referred to as Pitaya. The ideal addition to your morning fruit bowl, dragon fruit is a great source of antioxidants and has few calories. It is supposed to help decrease cholesterol, manage blood pressure, and promote heart health when consumed consistently. If you're not familiar with the fruit, the pink, scaly outer skin encloses a white, red, or pink, fleshy inside that is flecked with black seeds and has a sweet flavour and is very cooling. The body needs both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are abundant in the seeds. So, how do you consume it? It's easy. Here are five delectable ways:
Cut the dragon fruit in half. The pulp can then be removed with a spoon and eaten raw or drizzled with honey as a snack between meals. However, avoid eating the outer peel because it is nonedible.
Simply peel off the scaly outer layer and then slice the inside pulp to your preferred thickness. To create a cool fruit salad, combine the pieces with additional fruit slices. Or incorporate it into your bowl of muesli that includes nuts, seeds, and bananas. Here is a straightforward recipe for fresh fruit muesli that you can make at home. Add dragon fruit along with the apples and pears.
The fruit's pulp can be used to create hydrating drinks and morning smoothies at home once it has been peeled. With a variety of ingredients, including kiwi, pineapple, banana, strawberries, and oranges, dragon fruit can be combined to create a delicate sweet flavour.
Another excellent method to enjoy this unusual ingredient is to grill dragon fruit cubes. A dash of chilli powder can be used to counteract the caramelised sweetness, creating a mouthwatering treat.
Dragon fruit kebab
Ingredients:
1 dragon fruit, cubed
1 pineapple, cubed
Oil for brushing
1 tsp red chilli powder
Salt to taste
Method:
Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and stir thoroughly. Place pineapple and dragon fruit slices alternately on the skewers, and cook for 10 minutes. Serve warm.
In addition to tasting fantastic, dragon fruit is a great alternative because it is packed with vitamins. Simply juice the fruit (and any more fruits you'd want, like kiwis), transfer it to a mould, and freeze it until it sets. Add honey or jaggery to the treat to make it sweeter.
Here are some things to keep in mind: Fresh, ripe dragon fruit has the greatest flavour. Therefore, give the fruit a light press with your hands before purchasing it. It is safe to pick up if it is just a little bit squishy. Check to see if it isn't too soft; if it is, it is overripe. The fruit should be vivid pink and free of bruises or other blemishes.
