Indian kitchen have witnessed the use of traditional vegetables across ages. But in the recent times, exotic vegetables are also slowly making their way into the shelves of the Indian kitchens. They have added a lot of variety to the type of food we consume, and they also have their own nutritional index to add to our recommended dietary allowance. Here are the top ten exotic vegetables that have already made their way in Indian kitchen.
1. Cherry Tomato:
These tomatoes are small and round and are completely different from the tomatoes we have been using for ages. But they are similar in taste and are used in a variety of dishes such as curries and salads. They can be eaten raw too, and are available only in supermarkets. It is possible to grow them at home as well in a small container. We get these tomatoes canned as well. Some of the popular dishes that are made with cherry tomatoes are cherry tomatoes and olives, macaroni salad, basil hot dog rolls, samosa kadhai chaat, etc.
2. Zucchini:
This is a summer vegetable that belongs to the cucumber family. It also falls in the category of melons and spaghetti squash. This is an extremely healthy vegetable and is an excellent source of calcium, zinc, iron, and several other vitamins. This vegetable comprises of high amount of Vitamin A. They also possess tremendous health benefits, such as reducing blood sugar levels, improving digestion, improving heart healthy, and strengthening vision as well. This vegetable is available in either yellow or green color and can be eaten raw with other vegetables or stir-fried with olive oil, soups, or bread.
3. Baby corn:
Baby corn occupies a very important place in the list of exotic vegetables. This is a very popular vegetable and is a low-calorie food found in the platters of those who wish to lose weight. It is used predominantly in Chinese and Italian dishes. It is a star in the world of starters and is presented in the form of chili baby corn and baby corn fritters. It is also teamed up with other ingredients in a salad, toasted in the pizza, and used in wraps and rolls. Baby corn is also an important ingredient in a number of Chinese dishes.
4. Celery:
Celery is a hard-to-find and expensive vegetable on the list of exotic vegetables. This is one of the most important exotic vegetables that possess many health benefits. It plays a pivotal role in preventing cancer inflammation, and blood pressure. It also controls liver diseases and is used in the treatment of psoriasis, fever, gout, and asthma. Celery can be eaten both cooked and raw. Though it is grown in India, most of them are exported, as it is not very popular here. Celery is an important ingredient in many salads and soups.
5. Lettuce:
Lettuce is the crunchy portion of a burger and is an important ingredient in a salad. It is used predominantly to add texture to the food, being a crispy and crunchy vegetable. Lettuce is also used in wraps and sandwiches and tastes great with cheesy or spicy fillings. It serves as a perfect snack for most parties. It tastes best with many dips. Some of the most sought-after lettuce recipes are Caesar salad, feta salad, lettuce rolls, lettuce wraps, etc.
6. Asparagus:
Asparagus is one top of the most exotic vegetables, and it renders tremendous health benefits to the consumer. The vegetable is very low in calories and is packed with essential vitamins and minerals. It is also rich in antioxidants and is available to us in a variety of colors such as purple, green, white etc. It is very popular among continental cuisine and plays an important role in dishes such as salads, frittatas, pasta, stir-fries, etc. While buying asparagus from shops, it is important to ensure that its stem looks tight and firm and has closed tips.
7. Parsley:
Parsley is a very versatile and exotic herb that plays a major role in Middle Eastern cooking. It is generally used as a spice and as an ingredient to garnish the dishes. Many times, it is also sprinkled on soups and mixed with ground meat. The dried parsley leaves have a strong aroma and a pungent and bitter taste when they are crushed. It leaves a significant taste and aroma to the dishes and has a very long shelf life. It also plays a major role in delicacies like pizza, salad, pasta, etc.
8. Broccoli:
Broccoli is not becoming quiet common in India and has obtained a permanent place in our cuisine. Though it is of foreign origin, it is cultivated in India as well. It belongs to the cabbage family, and its Italian name means flowering on top of the cabbage plant. It is one of the most nutritious vegetables and has distinct crisp and sturdy florets. Some of the popular dishes that are cooked using Broccoli are soups, salads, and pasta salad; it is used as French dressing, with cheddar crepes, etc.
9. Kale:
Kale is one of the must-have and must-use vegetables as it is rich in many nutrients. In fact, Kale is the face of healthy vegetables and is known for the numerous health benefits it renders. It helps in preventing diabetes, heart disease, and cancers. It is also rich in a number of essential nutrients such as Vitamin C, A, and Vitamin K. Kale is a leafy vegetable but is very taste and adds a distinct flavor to the dishes. We can use the stem and the leaves on the sandwiches and salads.
10. Pak Choy:
This is a form of a Chinese vegetable that is generally used in spring rolls and in stir fry. This vegetable is originally from China but is also a popular European food imported to India. Its structure looks like celery, and it has pale green or white and chunky stalks, along with green leaves. It is rich in Vitamin C, beta carotenes, calcium, folic acid, and many essential minerals.
All these exotic vegetables are slowly making their way to the Indian kitchen and are becoming part of our diet menu. They are rich in many nutrients and are also available at a comfortable cost for Indian families to afford.
