DRAGON FRUIT DELIGHTS TO SAVOUR!

Varied – Versatile – Vibrant

Dragon fruit is also known as “pitaya” or “strawberry pear”. Dragon fruit grows on a climbing cactus plant that can grow from 15-20 feet high and can live for as long as two decades. The flower buds of the fruit are edible when cooked. Dragon Fruits are native to Southern Mexico and across Central and South America. The name ‘dragon fruit’ is derived from its unique appearance, where the spikes resemble fire and the scales resemble that of a dragon, as depicted in Chinese mythology. Dragon fruit is a fruit of many names, known as pitaya and pitahaya depending on genus, as well as strawberry pear and even night-blooming cereus.

Dragon fruit can be considered as a superfood being low in calories but high in fibre, antioxidants, phytonutrients, vitamins and minerals, and containing healthy fatty acids and probiotics. Antioxidants are essential to protect cells from free radical damage, which cause chronic disease and ageing. Some of the major antioxidants found in dragon fruit are betacyanins, betaxanthins, hydroxycinnamates and flavonoids.

To choose a ripe dragon fruit, look for bright, even-coloured skin. A few blemishes on the skin are usual, but if the fruit has a lot of flaws, it may be over-ripe. Hold the dragon fruit in your palm, and try pressing the skin with your thumb or fingers. It should give a little, but shouldn’t be too soft or mushy.

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Dragon fruit is rich in phytonutrients and antioxidants, including good amounts of carotene and vitamin C, and its nutritional and antibacterial properties have been studied for their ability to improve digestion, strengthen the immune system, and boost energy levels. Dragon fruit has high water content (about 80% water), and is a good source of iron, magnesium, B vitamins, phosphorus, protein, calcium, and fiber. The fruit’s edible seeds are also nutritious, as they are high in polyunsaturated fats like omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which have been shown to lower the risk of cardiovascular disorders

Dragon fruit is best used raw and slightly chilled, but can also be cooked, such as grilling with a sprinkle of chili powder to balance its sweet flavor. Slice the fruit lengthwise and scoop out the flesh, or quarter it and peel off the leathery skin entirely, as it can be bitter. Dragon fruit is commonly blended in smoothies, or juiced for beverages and cocktails. It can be used to make jams or flavor ice creams, sorbets and other desserts, while syrup made from the fruit is often used for colouring pastries and candies.

The soft yet dense texture will hold its shape nicely when cut, so it can be diced into fruit salads with papaya, coconut, mango, guava or kiwi. It can also be used in Savory salads, and pairs well with seafood, such as scallops and white, flaky fish. Ripe Dragon fruit can be kept at room temperature for a few days, or refrigerated in a sealed container for prolonged use. Fresh, cut segments will keep in a sealed container in the refrigerator for a day or two. Dragon fruit can also be sliced or cubed, then frozen for future use in blended or pureed applications.

Dragon fruit is a perfect treat for the eyes, plate and the palate. It is great to add to our diets with a number of nutritive offerings to benefit from affiliating it to a number of cuisines.

Dr. Kaviraj Khialani, Celebrity Master Chef

Here are a few Health Benefits of Dragon Fruit:

1. Dragon fruit is considered good for the eyes, bones, teeth and skin.
2. Dragon fruit offers good support to our digestive system since it is high in fiber content, also aids in weight loss if consumed wisely.
3. Dragon fruit is a great immunity-boosting ingredient and a fruit which can be had regularly due to the good quantities of vitamins and minerals present in it.
4. Dragon fruit is also regarded as anti-aging since it has anti-oxidants which work against free radicals and makes our skin tighter and younger look wise.
5. Dragon fruit also helps prevent cardiovascular diseases, lowers cholesterol levels and helps reduce high blood pressure.
6. Dragon fruit is also anti-inflammatory and supports our nervous system. It is high in vitamin B, which aids in the formation of nerve cells and healthy fats for proper conductive signalling.
7. Dragon fruit is also a heart-healthy food, high in vitamin A and vitamin C, and helps cure constipation issues.
8. Dragon fruit helps keep the kidney clean and de-toxified, and it is also beneficial for bone health.
9. Dragon fruit has also been regarded as a stress buster, due to its attractive look and eye appeal it is also a mood enhancer and works well to manage stress levels as well.
10. Dragon fruit is also regarded as good for the health of our hair and it supports good development of hair in our body and also strengthens hair growth.

Here are a few recipes with Dragon Fruit being incorporated into various cuisines and methods of cooking/ applications:

Recipe-1] DRAGON FRUIT WALDORF

Recipe-2] MARINATED DRAGON FRUIT SALAD

Recipe-3] DRAGON FRUIT DELIGHT

Recipe-4] FUSION FIRNI WITH DRAGON FRUIT

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