Also known as

Ziziphus, Bor, Ranbor

Description

Native to Asia, specifically India, Ber is a tropical fruit. It has a soft, juicy flesh which is sweetish in taste. You will find it being sold by street cart vendors outside schools, beaches etc since it's a hit amongst all ages.

How to select

Ensure that the fruit berries are free from blemishes or other marks. They should have flesh intact and a bright red colour. Dried ber will have a more shriveled appearance and pale reddish brown colour. If purchasing from supermarkets, check the packaging for details.

Culinary Uses

· The fruit can be eaten raw or can be pickled. Raw ber is a favourite amongst school going children who have it seasoned with salt.
· Use crushed ber as syrups in beverages like mocktails etc.
· Fully mature unripe ber can be used in chutneys, murabbas etc.
· Use ber to make delicious jellies.

How to store

Ber can be stored fresh under refrigerated conditions. Many people in North India dry the fruit under the sun so that it can be used all round the year.

Health Benefits

· It is rich in Vitamin C.
· The fruit is easily digestible and acts as a mild laxative.