Feb 23, 2024, 08:49 PM IST
India is known for its rich variety of fruits and vegetables, but not all of them are native to the country. Over the centuries, various fruits and vegetables have been introduced to India from different parts of the world, enriching the culinary landscape of the country. Here are 10 Indian fruits and vegetables that are not of Indian origin.
Potatoes, a staple in Indian cuisine, actually originated in South America. They were brought to India by the Portuguese in the 17th century and quickly became a popular ingredient in curries, snacks, and side dishes.
Tomatoes, another essential ingredient in Indian cooking, also have their roots in South America. Introduced to India by the Spanish, tomatoes are now widely used in dishes like gravies, salads, and chutneys.
Chilies, which add heat and flavor to Indian dishes, were introduced to India by the Portuguese. They quickly became an integral part of Indian cuisine and are now grown extensively across the country.
Mangoes, known as the king of fruits in India, have their origins in South Asia and Southeast Asia. They have been cultivated in India for thousands of years and are enjoyed fresh, as well as in desserts, drinks, and pickles.
Pineapples are not native to India. They were introduced to the country by the Portuguese and are now grown in states like Kerala and Karnataka.
Cashew nuts are widely used in Indian sweets and savory dishes, but they are not indigenous to India. Originally from Brazil, cashew trees were brought to India by the Portuguese in the 16th century.
Cabbage, a versatile vegetable used in Indian cuisine, is believed to have originated in Europe. It was introduced to India by the British and is now a common ingredient in dishes like coleslaw and stir-fries.
Carrots were first cultivated in Central Asia. They made their way to India via the Silk Road and are now used in a variety of Indian dishes, from curries to desserts.
Guavas are not native to India. They were introduced to the country by the Portuguese and are now grown in states like Maharashtra and Gujarat.
Papayas, with their sweet and tropical taste, are believed to have originated in Central America. They were brought to India by the Spanish and are now grown in states like Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.