Come November and the pitter-patter of raindrops in the receding monsoons gradually transforms into the dry and chilly environs of winter. Custard apples or “Sitaphal” as they are called in Hindi, are a quintessential Indian fruit that ripens in this cold weather.
Bearing a green-black outer scaly appearance, these delicious custard apples have a thick flesh within, which surrounds several dark coloured seeds and not only has a pleasant aroma with a mildly sweet taste but is also a treasure trove of nutrients.
Custard apples also known as sugar apple, sweetsop are an ideal fruit for weight loss, as well as for those with heart problems, owing to its high fibre content, zero cholesterol, negligible amounts of sodium and very little fat.
These super sweet, delicious fruits are prized for their significant quantities of vitamin C, that help in bolstering the immune system. Custard apples are also intrinsically rich in vitamin B6, calcium, magnesium and iron, thus contributing to maintaining optimal nervous system function, bone health and healthy red blood cell synthesis in the body. Also Check Out: Top 5 Super Foods To Achieve Weight Loss - Infographic
And if you thought, custard apples are not worth incorporating into the recipe, think again. We bring you wholesome and tasty custard apple recipes today, that can be prepared in a jiffy and for the physical and mental well-being of your family.
Custard Apple And Nut Salad
Ingredients:
2 medium custard apples
A fistful of almonds
3 - 5 walnuts, cut into halves
12 - 15 raisins
A few mint leaves, for garnish
Method:
Scoop the flesh out of the custard apples into a deep bowl.
Add the almonds, walnuts and raisins to the custard apple and mix well.
Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Divide the salad into even portions, top it off with fresh mint leaves and serve chilled.
Nutrition:
Custard apples are packed with vitamin C that shields the body against invading pathogens by promoting immunity. They are also bestowed with noteworthy levels of vital trace minerals calcium and magnesium, that guarantee optimal bone density. Almonds and walnuts offer vast amounts of protein for building strong muscles, while raisins and mint leaves comprise potent antioxidants that rid the system of toxic free radicals.
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Custard Apple Pie
Ingredients:
3 ripe custard apples, with flesh, scooped out
1 big apple, cut into thin slices
½ tsp vanilla essence
1 cup milk
1 cup ground flax seed extract
1 tsp cardamom powder
Method:
Mix the custard apple, vanilla essence, milk, flax seed extract and cardamom powder in a circular baking bowl.
Flatten out the mixture and carefully place the apple slices in a neat circular arrangement.
Preheat the baking oven to 180 0 C, place the dish containing the custard mix inside and cook for 20 minutes.
Carefully remove the custard apple pie, cut into even pieces and serve hot.
Nutrition:
Custard apples are a storehouse of iron that promotes proper synthesis and transport of red blood cells in the body. Furthermore, they also supply essential dietary fibers that aid in digestion, keep one feeling full and help avoid untimely food cravings. Apples supply potassium for maintaining electrolyte balance as well as vitamin K that regulates blood clotting. Milk offers significant amounts of calcium for fortified bones. Also Read: Amazing Ways Vitamin C Benefits Your Health
