Ice Apple, also known as Taal, Tari, or Nungu, is a refreshing fruit that has taken the culinary world by storm with its unique and exotic flavors. This fruit is harvested from the Palmyra Palm tree, which grows abundantly in Southeast Asia, India, and parts of Africa. It is a summer fruit and, is known for its cooling properties, making it a popular choice for desserts and beverages during hot weather. In this blog, we will explore the exotic flavors of Ice Apples and how to use them in various culinary applications.
Step 1: Choosing the Right Ice Apple
When choosing Ice Apples, it is essential to pick the ones that are fresh and have a firm texture. Avoid any fruits that have started to ferment or have a sour smell. You can find Ice Apple in local markets or online stores that specialize in exotic fruits.
Step 2: Preparing Ice Apple
To prepare it, you need to peel the outer layer and remove the hard shell to reveal the soft, translucent flesh. You can do this by using a sharp knife to cut off the top and bottom of the fruit, making a small incision in the center of the flesh, and peeling it away. Alternatively, you can also break it open with your fingers.
Step 3: Using in Desserts
Ice Apple is a popular ingredient in many Indian desserts, such as kheer, payasam, and ras malai. You can add to your favorite desserts to give them a unique and refreshing flavor. You can also use it to make Ice Apple pudding by blending the flesh with milk, sugar, and cardamom powder.
Step 4: Using in Beverages
Ice Apple is also a popular ingredient in beverages, such as coconut water, smoothies, and mocktails. You can blend the flesh with coconut water and mint to make a refreshing drink or add it to your favorite smoothie recipe for a tropical twist. You can also make a delicious Ice Apple mocktail by mixing the flesh with lemon juice, sugar syrup, and soda water.
Step 5: Using in Salads
Ice Apples can also be used to add a unique and refreshing flavor to salads. You can chop the flesh into small pieces and add it to your favorite salad recipe, along with other fruits, vegetables, and herbs. It pairs well with cucumber, tomato, mint, and coriander.
Step 6: Using in Main Course
Ice Apple can also be used in savory dishes, such as curries, stir-fries, and rice dishes. You can add it to your favorite vegetable curry recipe for a refreshing twist or use it to make a delicious Ice Apple and coconut milk rice dish.
Conclusion
Ice Apple is an exotic and refreshing fruit that has taken the culinary world by storm with its unique flavors. It can be used in various culinary applications, such as desserts, beverages, salads, and main course dishes. So, the next time you come across it, do not hesitate to try it and explore its exotic flavors.