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South India, with its tropical and subtropical zones, is home to a variety of fruits that are as interesting in flavour as they are in appearance. While mangoes and bananas are well-known, the region also produces many unusual fruits that are celebrated locally but lesser-known elsewhere.
Video Credits: Tropical Feelings/ YouTube
These fruits capture the essence of South India's natural richness and bring a burst of local flavour. Each fruit has a unique storey, whether it’s found in backyards, grown on small farms, or even sold in bustling local markets. Let’s explore some distinctive fruits from South India that you might want to try for their unique taste.
Passion Fruit
Passion fruit, locally known as ‘Krishna Phal,’ grows abundantly in the cooler regions of South India, particularly in parts of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Its hard shell, ranging from purple to yellow, hides a pulpy interior filled with seeds. This pulp is tangy and slightly sweet, making it popular in juices, desserts, and even in savoury dishes. The fruit’s exotic aroma and vibrant flavour have made it a favourite among locals.
Image Credits: Wikimedia Commons
Star Fruit
Star Fruit, or ‘Carambola,’ is another unique fruit found in South India. Named for its star shape when sliced, this fruit has a juicy, crisp texture. It’s enjoyed fresh, as a juice or even in salads. The flavour is mildly sweet with a hint of tartness, making it a refreshing treat in hot weather. This fruit is commonly found in Kerala’s gardens and is a popular pick during its peak season.
Also Read: 6 Unique Fruits From The Himalayan Valleys
Langsah
Langsah, also known as ‘Lanzones’ or ‘Duku,’ is native to the Western Ghats and is a delightful fruit to sample in South India. It resembles a small potato, with thin, easily peeled skin and translucent, segmented flesh. The fruit has a sweet yet slightly acidic taste that’s often compared to a mild citrus flavour. Langsah grows in clusters, and while it’s not as common as other fruits, it can be found in local markets during the season.
Jungli Jalebi
Jungli Jalebi, also called ‘Kodukkapuli’ in Tamil Nadu, is a fruit you’re likely to see in villages across South India. This unique fruit resembles a twisted pod and has a mildly sweet, tangy pulp inside. Each pod has a few seeds surrounded by the edible pulp, which is enjoyed fresh or used to make chutneys. Its unusual appearance and distinct flavour make Jungli Jalebi an interesting addition to the array of local fruits.
Image Credits: Wikimedia Commons
Mangustaan
Mangustaan, known globally as mangosteen, is often referred to as the ‘Queen of Fruits’ due to its delicate flavour and juicy texture. The fruit has a hard, purple rind, which opens up to reveal white, segmented flesh inside. The taste is mildly sweet with a subtle tartness, and it’s highly refreshing. Mangusteen is grown mostly in Kerala and Karnataka, where the climate suits this tropical fruit perfectly.
Ambarella
Ambarella, also called ‘Indian Hog Plum’ or ‘Amra’ in some regions, is a green, oval-shaped fruit with a crunchy texture and a tangy, sour flavour. It’s often used in pickles, chutneys, and curries in South Indian households. Ambarella trees are common in the southern states, especially during the summer when the fruit is in season. While not typically eaten as a fresh snack, it is appreciated for its culinary versatility.
Bilimbi
Bilimbi, known locally as ‘Irumban Puli’ in Kerala, is a green, elongated fruit that’s sour and tangy. Found in backyards and homesteads across South India, Bilimbi is used primarily in curries, pickles, and chutneys rather than eaten fresh due to its intense tartness. It’s highly prized in local cooking and is often substituted for tamarind in various dishes.
Image Credits: Freepik
Wood Apple
Wood apple, or ‘Bael’ in some regions, is a fascinating fruit with a hard, woody shell. When cracked open, it reveals a sticky, aromatic pulp with a tangy-sweet flavour. This fruit is common in Tamil Nadu and is often enjoyed as a cooling drink or as a refreshing snack mixed with jaggery. Wood apple has a distinctive smell and taste, making it a memorable experience for first-time tasters.
