6 Ways To Make Savoury Dishes With Fruit

As a society, we tend to associate fruit with sweet treats and desserts. From apple pies to strawberry shortcakes, fruits are often viewed as a sugary indulgence. However, this narrow view of fruits does not do justice to the versatility and complexity of these natural wonders. Fruits can also be used to add depth and complexity to savoury dishes, offering a range of flavours and textures that can take a dish to the next level.

However, when used properly, fruits can bring a unique flavour profile and complexity to savoury dishes. From the sweetness of grilled peaches balancing the bitterness of arugula to the tartness of cranberries complementing the richness of roast duck, fruits can add a depth of flavour and dimension to savoury dishes that would be difficult to achieve with other ingredients alone.

It's time to break out of the fruit-for-dessert box and explore the possibilities of using fruits in savoury dishes. With a bit of experimentation and imagination, you might just discover your new favourite flavour combination.

Fruit Chaat

Fruit chaat is a popular street food in India and Pakistan that combines a variety of fresh fruits with spices, lemon juice, and chaat masala. The result is a sweet and tangy salad that is bursting with flavour. Common fruits used in fruit chaat include apples, pears, mangoes, and bananas, but any fresh fruit can be used. It's a refreshing and healthy snack that can be enjoyed any time of the day.

Pineapple Sambar

Sambar is a South Indian lentil-based stew that is typically served with rice or dosa. Pineapple sambar is a variation of this dish that includes fresh pineapple chunks, which add a sweet and sour flavour to the dish. The pineapple also helps to balance out the heat from the spices, creating a perfectly balanced and flavourful stew.

Jardaloo Ma Ghost

Jardaloo ma ghost is a traditional Parsi dish that combines tender lamb with dried apricots, tomatoes, onions, and spices. The sweetness of the apricots balances the richness of the lamb, creating a dish that is both savoury and slightly sweet. The apricots also add a bit of texture to the dish, giving each bite a unique burst of flavour.

Mango Salsa

Mango is one of my favourite fruits to use in savoury dishes. It has a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with spicy and tangy flavours. To make a simple mango salsa, dice fresh mango and combine it with diced red onion, minced jalapeno pepper, chopped cilantro, and lime juice. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a refreshing and flavourful meal.

Fig and Prosciutto Pizza

Figs are another fruit that work surprisingly well in savoury dishes. When paired with salty prosciutto and creamy cheese, they create a perfect balance of flavours. To make this pizza, simply top a pre-made pizza crust with sliced fresh figs, torn pieces of prosciutto, crumbled goat cheese, and a drizzle of honey. Bake in the oven until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Spicy Pineapple Chicken

Pineapple may be sweet, but when paired with spicy flavours it takes on a whole new dimension. To make this dish, marinate chicken in a mixture of pineapple juice, soy sauce, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Grill or pan-fry the chicken until cooked through, then serve it alongside grilled pineapple slices and a side of steamed rice. The combination of sweet and spicy flavours is truly irresistible