Top 10 Popular Indian Dry Fruits: All you need to Know

Dry fruits have long been a part of Indian cuisine and their acceptance continues to expand. Apart from being used in many different dishes and desserts, they can also be eaten as a delicious and healthy snack. In this article, we will provide you with a detailed list of the best Indian different types of dry fruits. This article has everything you need to know about India’s most popular dry fruits, whether you’re looking for a nutritious snack or trying to use dry fruits in your cooking.

Indian food includes a lot of different types of dry fruits, which are rich in essential nutrients that support good health. India is well known for producing some of the best dry fruits in the world, which are exported to many nations. The best Indian dry fruits are listed in-depth in this article. You can give your dishes a tasty and healthy twist by incorporating these delectable dry fruits. In India, dry fruits are a staple of the diet, especially during special occasions and holidays. Almonds, cashews, pistachios, raisins, figs, apricots, dates, walnuts, hazelnuts, and prunes are some of the most popular dry fruits in India. In addition to being delicious, these dry fruits also offer vital nutrition.

Dry Fruits
Dry Fruits

Types of Dry Fruits

Almonds (Badam)

Almonds, also known as badam, are one of the most popular dried fruits in India. They are a rich source of protein, fiber, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. Almonds are thought to improve brain function, reduce the risk of heart disease, and lower cholesterol levels. They can be eaten raw or cooked and are often used in desserts, shakes, and smoothies.

Almonds

Cashews (Kaju)

Cashew nuts, also known as Kaju, are another popular dried fruit in India. They are a rich source of protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. Cashews are believed to improve heart health, boost immunity, and help with weight loss. They can be eaten raw or roasted and are often used in curries, desserts, and snacks.

Cashew

Raisins (Kishmish)

Raisins, also known as Kishmish, are nutrient-rich raisins. They are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Raisins are thought to aid digestion, reduce the risk of heart disease and improve bone health. They can be eaten as a snack or used in desserts, salads, and cereals.

Raisins

Dates (Khajur)

Dates also referred to as Khajur, are a common dried fruit consumed for its health benefits in India. They are abundant in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The consumption of dates is thought to enhance digestion, boost energy, and lower the risk of heart disease. They can be added to smoothies and desserts, or eaten as a snack.

Dates

Pistachios (Pista)

Pistachios, also known as pistachios, are a good source of vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, and protein. They are thought to help with weight loss, digestion, and heart health. Pistachios are often used in desserts, ice creams, and snacks, and can be eaten raw or roasted.

Pistachios

Figs (Anjeer)

Figs, also known as Anjeer, are sweet and tasty dried fruits that are eaten for their health benefits. They are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Figs are believed to improve digestion, lower cholesterol levels, and reduce the risk of heart disease. They can be eaten as a snack or used in desserts, salads, and cereals.

Dry Fig

Apricots (Khubani)

Apricots, also known as Khubani, are a rich source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are believed to improve digestion, boost immunity, and improve skin health. Apricots can be eaten as a snack or used in desserts, jams, and chutneys.

Apricot

Walnuts (Akhrot)

Akhrot, or walnuts, are an excellent source of protein, good fats, vitamins, and minerals. They are thought to enhance cognitive function, lower cholesterol, and lower the risk of heart disease. Walnuts are frequently used in desserts, salads, and snacks and can be consumed either raw or roasted.

Walnut

Pine nuts (Chilgoza)

The edible seeds of pine trees are known as pine nuts or chilgoza in some regions of the world. They are frequently used in many different types of food, such as Italian cuisine, Mediterranean cuisine, and Middle Eastern cuisine. Protein, fiber, and healthy fats are among the nutrients found in abundance in pine nuts. In addition, they are a good source of vitamins and minerals like zinc, magnesium, and vitamin E.

Pine Nut

Apart from the above-mentioned dry fruits, India is also known for producing other varieties of dry fruits, such as:

Chironji

This tiny nut, which resembles an almond, is native to northern India. It is frequently used in Indian desserts and sweets because of its nutty and slightly sweet flavor.

Chironji

Fox nut

Fox nut, also referred to as lotus seed or makhana is a round, white seed that develops in the still water of ponds and lakes. In addition to being used in curries, desserts, and soups, it is a well-liked snack in India.

Fox nut

Prunes

Although less common than figs and dates, prunes are still eaten in some regions of India. They are frequently employed in baking and cooking.

Prunes

Why should you add dry fruits to your daily diet?

Dried fruit is a great source of essential nutrients, fiber, and antioxidants, making it a healthy addition to your daily diet. Here are some of the best ways to include dried fruit in your daily diet.

1. Snack: Dried fruit can be eaten as a snack or mixed with nuts and seeds for a healthy and satisfying snack. 

2. Breakfast: Add chopped dried fruit to your morning oatmeal, cornflakes, yogurt, or smoothie for extra flavor and nutrition. 

3. Salads: Add dried fruits such as cranberries, raisins, or apricots to your salads to add sweetness and texture. 

4. For Sandwiches: Add some chopped almonds or cashews to your sandwiches for a crunchy, savory flavor. 

5. Baked Goods: Add chopped dried fruits such as dates, figs, or apricots to muffins, bread, or cakes to add flavor and texture. 

6. Dry Mix: Mix your favorite dried fruits, nuts, and seeds to create a healthy, portable mix to enjoy on the go. 

7. Smoothies: Add some dried fruit like dates, figs, or apricots to your favorite smoothie recipe for added fiber and sweetness. 

8. In granola bars: Mix in dried fruits like blueberries, cherries, or cranberries to granola bars for a tasty and healthy snack. 

9. In savory dishes: Use chopped dry fruits like raisins, apricots, or figs in savory dishes like curries, rice dishes, or stuffing for added flavor and nutrition. 

10. Desserts: Use dried fruits such as raisins, dates, or apricots for sweetness and texture in your favorite desserts, such as cakes, pies, or ice cream.

Dry Fruit Delights: Global Ways to Savor Nature’s Sweet Gems

Middle Eastern cuisine: Dried fruits like dates, figs, and apricots are frequently used in both savory and sweet dishes in Middle Eastern cuisine. Lamb or chicken tagine with prunes and almonds is a common dish.

Indian cuisine: Desserts like kheer (rice pudding) and halwa frequently contain dry fruits like cashews, almonds, and raisins (sweet pudding).

Moroccan cuisine: Almonds and raisins are frequently used in tagines and couscous dishes in Moroccan cuisine. Baklava is a sweet pastry filled with pistachios, almonds, and walnuts that is a well-liked dessert.

Turkish cuisine: Dried apricots and figs are frequently used in Turkish desserts like stuffed apricots and fig pudding. They are frequently used in savory dishes like stews with lamb or chicken.

Mexican cuisine: In Mexican cuisine, dried fruits like prunes and raisins are commonly used in mole sauces, which are typically served with chicken or beef.

Italian Cuisine: In Italian cuisine, dried fruits such as figs and raisins are often used in desserts such as panforte, a dense cake filled with dried fruit and nuts. 

Chinese Cuisine: In Chinese cuisine, dried fruits such as goji berries and dried marmalade are used as medicinal ingredients in soups and tea.

10 best ways to Use Dry Fruits in Indian Cuisine

Dry fruits are commonly used in Indian cuisine to add flavor, texture, and nutrition to dishes. Here are some of the best ways to use dry fruits in Indian cuisine:

1. Biryanis and Pulao: Add raisins, cashews, almonds, or pistachios to biryanis and pulao for a rich and nutty flavor.

2. Kheer and Halwa: Use dry fruits like raisins, dates, figs, or apricots in traditional Indian desserts like kheer and halwa for added sweetness and texture.

3. Chutneys: Combine dried fruits like dates or apricots with tamarind, jaggery, and spices to make a sweet and tangy chutney that pairs well with Indian snacks and appetizers.

4. Stuffing: Use dried fruits like raisins, apricots, or figs in stuffed vegetable dishes like Bharwan Baingan, Bharwan Shimla Mirch, or Stuffed Tomatoes.

5. Ladoos and Barfis: Use dry fruits like almonds, cashews, and pistachios in traditional Indian sweets like laddoos and barfis for added texture and flavor.

6. Curries: Add dried fruits like raisins, apricots, or figs to curries for a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor.

7. Samosas and Kachoris: Use a mixture of raisins, cashews, and almonds as a filling for samosas and kachoris for a crunchy and nutty flavor.

8. Drinks: Use dried fruits like dates or apricots to sweeten traditional Indian drinks like lassi, thandai, and badam milk.

9. Rice Pudding: Add raisins, almonds, and cashews to rice pudding for a rich and nutty flavor.

10. Snacks: Mix your favorite dry fruits and nuts to make a healthy and flavorful snack that can be enjoyed any time of the day.

Names of Different Dry Fruits in Hindi and English

Here are some names of common dried fruit list with their nutritional value:

English Name Hindi Name Nutritional Value (100 per gram)
Almonds बादाम Calories: 576
Protein: 21.1g
Fat: 49.9g
Cashew काजू Calories: 553
Protein: 18.2g
Fat: 43.9g
Pistachios पिसता Calories: 553
Protein: 18.2g
Fat: 43.9g
Dates खजूर Calories: 553
Protein: 18.2g
Fat: 43.9g
Apricot खुबानी Calories: 48
Protein: 1.4g
Fat: 0.4g
Raisins  किशमिश Calories: 299
Protein: 3.1g
Fat: 0.5g
Walnuts अखरोट Calories: 654
Protein: 15.2g
Fat: 65.2g
Dry Figs अंजीर Calories: 47 
Protein: 0.5g  
Fat: 0.1g  
Prunes आलूबुखारा Calories: 20 
Protein: 0.2g 
Fat: 0.1g 
Fox Nuts मखाने Calories: 91
Protein: 3g 
Fat: 0.3g 

Conclusion:

Dry fruits are abundant in India, and each variety has a distinct flavor and nutritional value. From raisins and figs to almonds and cashews, dried fruits make a fantastic selection for a balanced, healthy snack. Your immunity, digestive and cardiovascular health, as well as other aspects of your health, can all be improved by including dried fruits in your diet.

Furthermore, it’s crucial to remember that, despite being a healthy snack choice, dry fruits should only be eaten in moderation due to their high calorie and sugar content. To reap the benefits without going overboard, it is suggested that you eat a few handfuls of dry fruits every day. To keep dry fruits from spoiling or losing their flavor and nutrition, it’s crucial to store them properly in airtight containers in a cool, dry environment. Dry fruits can be a wonderful addition to your diet and give you the nutrients you need for a healthy lifestyle with proper storage and moderation in consumption.

FAQs- Indian Dry Fuits

  • Who is the king of dry fruits in India?

    There is no one specific “king” of dry fruits in India as there are many different types of dry fruits that are popular and widely consumed in the country such as almonds, cashew, pistachios, and many more to the list.

  • Which state is famous for dry fruits in India and why?

    The state of Jammu and Kashmir is known for its production of high-quality dry fruits, particularly walnuts, almonds, and pistachios. The region’s favorable climate and soil conditions make it an ideal location for growing these crops.

  • Which dry fruit is costly and where it is grown and why?

    The price of dry fruits can vary depending on several variables, such as the fruit’s scarcity, the region in which it is grown, and consumer demand. Iranian saffron, which is produced in the Iranian province of Khorasan and used as a spice, is one of the most expensive dry fruits. The Kashmiri mamra badam, an almond variety grown in the high elevations of India’s Himalayas, is another pricey dry fruit. Due to its rarity and labor-intensive harvesting and processing requirements, mamra badam is pricey.

  • Which country has the best dry fruits?

    Considering that various regions have distinct specialties, it can be difficult to determine which nation produces the best dry fruits. Iran, Turkey, the United States, and India, however, are a few of the world’s top producers of premium dry fruits.

  • Why is Mamra Badam expensive?

    Mamra badam is a high-quality, uncommon variety of almonds that is only occasionally grown in the high-altitude areas of the Himalayas, which is why it is expensive. The labor and time needed for mamra badam’s harvesting and processing also contribute to its high price.

  • Which dry fruit is healthiest?

    It depends on the nutrients you’re looking for when it comes to the healthiest dry fruit. In general, because they are so high in protein, fiber, and good fats, nuts like almonds, pistachios, and walnuts are regarded as being healthy. However, some dried fruits, including figs, dates, and apricots, are also excellent sources of vitamins and minerals like potassium and iron.

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