The month of October is the month for the onset of winter. Produce is usually of better quality and taste when in season, so knowing what is at its peak during the month of October let's look at the OCTOBER PRODUCE GUIDE.
VEGETABLES-
1. Beetroot
(Hindi: chukandar)
Known for its bright red color, beetroots are a great source of fiber, folate (vitamin B9), manganese, potassium, iron, and vitamin C. Beets are abundant in nitrates which have lowered blood pressure effect. This might lead to a reduced risk of heart attacks and heart failures.
Adding beetroot to your diet is actually quite simple. You can add beetroots into a salad, stir fry, and even sandwiches. some people even consume raw beetroot.
2. Brinjal
(Hindi: Baingan)
Also known as eggplant or aubergine in some regions, brinjal is popularly eaten in India during winters. If you've grown up in an Indian home, you'll be familiar with brinjal. Eggplants help in increasing brain function. They have high fiber which helps in lowering blood sugar levels.
Brinjal is popularly eaten as “Baingan ka bharta” in Indian households. If you don’t like baingan ka bharta, add it into your vegetables and khichdi.
3. Dill Leaves
(Hindi: Suva Bhaji)
Dill leaves are loaded with various vitamins and minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron. Dill leaves are low in calories and high in nutrients. The presence of flavonoids and B-complex vitamins in dill leaves make it a perfect natural remedy for insomnia. Being one of the best plant sources of calcium, dill leaves not only prevent bone loss but also strengthen bones.
Commonly used in soups, salads, pickles and other dishes, this leafy vegetable has a unique taste and a distinct flavor.
4. Brussel sprouts
(Hindi: Brussel Sprouts)
Member of the cabbage family, Brussel sprouts are not so popularly consumed in India. These are typically cut, cleaned, and cooked to make a nutritious side dish or main course. Brussels sprouts are high in fiber, which can promote regularity, support digestive health, and reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes. Brussel sprouts are also rich in vitamin K which promote bone growth. Brussels sprouts make a healthy addition to any diet and are easy to incorporate into side dishes and entrées. People often enjoy them roasted, boiled, sautéed, or baked.
5. Broccoli
(Hindi: Broccoli)
Known for its appearance like a mini tree, broccoli recently became popular for its nutritional value and its tree-like appearance. It is closely related to cabbage, Brussel sprouts, and kale. Broccoli is an amazing source of vitamin C, half a cup of cooked broccoli can provide more vitamin C than one orange. Eating broccoli may lower blood sugar and improve diabetic control.
Broccoli can be eaten cooked or raw — both are perfect. Broccoli is often added to soups, salads, pasta, and even in a stir fry.
FRUITS-
1. Apples
(Hindi: Seb/safarchand)
Apples are a popular fruit, containing antioxidants, vitamins, dietary fiber, and a range of other nutrients. Apples contain a lot of potassium which helps in lowering the risk of high blood pressure. This fruit may aid weight loss in several ways. They’re also particularly filling due to their high fiber content. Apples are usually consumed raw in India. They are further processed into apple sauce or apple pie. Apples are also added to fruit salads and breakfast bowls.
2. Guava
(Hindi: amarood/peru)
Guava is considered as a tropical fruit in India. Apart from the fruit being nutritionally rich, guava leaves are used as herbal tea. Both guava fruit or leaf has a positive effect on the heart as it helps lowering blood pressure thereby decreasing bad cholesterol. Guava also helps to relieve period cramps.
Just like apples, guavas are also consumed raw in India. Guava is processed into guava juice. It is also added in mocktails, smoothie bowls, and fruit salads as well.
3. Pomegranate
(Hindi: Anaar)
With its attractive appearance on the inside, pomegranate is considered one of the healthiest fruit on earth. The pomegranate is a fruit that contains hundreds of edible seeds called arils. They are rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and bioactive plant compounds, but they also contain some sugar. Pomegranate may help prevent prostate cancer, breast cancer, and even reduce heart problems. Pomegranate seeds are eaten raw, they are also added in salads for an attractive appearance. It is also eaten in the breakfast smoothie bowl and in sangria as well.
4. Figs
(Hindi: anjeer)
Known for its mild and sweet taste, figs are packed with nutrients and offer a variety of potential health benefits. Fresh figs are rich in nutrients while being relatively low in calories, making them a great addition to a healthy diet. Figs have also been used as a home remedy for digestion problems like constipation. Fresh figs are consumed raw or added to desserts. In India, figs are usually consumed in the dry form called “anjeer”- a popular dry fruit.
Buying fruits and vegetables that are in season is the best way to consume them for their health benefits and taste. The best way to get these seasonal fruits and vegetables is to buy from local farmers and vendors. #VocalForLocal.
I hope you enjoyed reading about October Produce Guide. Don’t forget to share it!! My other blogs are linked below! (I don’t own any of these pictures, all the copyright goes to the respective owner)
Commentaires