The season of the green fruit

Though Delhiites are aware of most of the imported fruits in the market, it is important for them to know that the season for the tropical fruit of avocados has also begun.

“Adding some avocado to your meals throughout the day is a smart way to ensure you are getting some good nutrition in your diet,” says celebrity chef Kunal Kapur as he whips up some delicious recipes using the fruit.

The New Zealand avocado season was recently launched at an event at the New Zealand High Commission. Organised by New Zealand Avocado – the premier body representing all New Zealand avocado growers and expor­ters, the event marked the beginning of the avocados that are available in Indian markets from now till the end of February. 

“Avocado is not commercially grown in India and hasn’t been widely available. I grew up in the Bay of Plenty, an avocado area and it is one of my favourite fruits. As a nutritionally rich whole food suitable for all ages, we hope consumers give it a try,” said New Zealand High Commissioner Grahame Morton as he revelled in the popularity of his country’s favourite fruit in a foreign land.

It is a known fact that avocados contain over 20 vitamins and minerals and are made up of proteins, good fats and carbohydrates. It helps the body to absorb more of the nutrients from other foods it is eaten with. In fact, avocados are regarded as one of the most nutritionally complete foods in the world.

Chef Kapur says avocados are also cholesterol-free and not many people realise “how amazing avocados taste when used in baking and desserts. Their creamy texture makes them perfect for ice cream and decadent sweet treats like chocolate avocado mousse.”

During the event, the chef offered helpful tips on how the fruit can be incorporated in Indian drinks and appetisers. 

“New Zealand Hass avocados are an amazingly healthy and versatile wholefood that contain the good fats needed to maintain a healthy heart. They interestingly blend with everyday Indian meals and the soft buttery texture and nutty flavour goes really well with many traditional dishes such as lassi, bhel puri and tawa pulao. They also blend seamlessly with curries,” said Kapur advising that an avocado and vanilla srikhand can also be tried for the upcoming festive season.    “My recipe for New Zealand Avocado and Cheese Parantha makes an excellent choice for kid’s lunch boxes and is also a tasty breakfast option. I love to give my son avocados once a day to keep him healthy and energetic,” he added.