Medically Reviewed by Dr. Ramesh Gaddam, MD

“Yelakki banana” is a variety of banana that is popular in South India, particularly in the state of Karnataka. It is known for its sweet taste and distinctive aroma. These bananas are small to medium-sized and are often eaten fresh or used in various South Indian dishes and snacks. They are sometimes referred to as … Read more

Musk melon, also known as cantaloupe, is a sweet and fragrant fruit that belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family. It’s popular for its refreshing flavor and juicy, orange-colored flesh. Musk melon is widely cultivated and enjoyed in various parts of the world, especially in the summer months. Musk melons have a rough, netted skin that is … Read more

Lahsun, also known as garlic, is a commonly used herb and spice in many cuisines around the world. It belongs to the Allium family, which also includes onions, shallots, and leeks. Garlic is known for its strong and pungent flavor, and it is used to add depth and aroma to a wide variety of dishes. … Read more

Pointed gourd, also known as “Parwal” or “Parval,” is a vegetable commonly used in Indian cuisine. It is a green, slender, cylindrical vegetable with pointed ends and a smooth texture. Pointed gourd has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and is often used in various recipes, including curries, stir-fries, and stuffed dishes. It is a good … Read more

Ivy gourd, also known as  Tindora or Tindora, is a tropical vegetable with a variety of culinary and potential health benefits. It is a low-calorie vegetable rich in essential nutrients. It contains dietary fiber, vitamins (particularly vitamin C, A, and some B vitamins), and minerals like iron, potassium, and calcium. It is a versatile vegetable … Read more

Pudina (Mint) Mint, commonly known as Pudina in India, is a versatile herb with a refreshing flavor and a range of culinary and medicinal uses. It is widely used in cooking, beverages, and herbal remedies. Mint is prized for its cooling properties and distinct taste. Pudina Nutrition   Nutritional profile of mint (pudina) for 100 … Read more

Jaljeera is a popular Indian beverage known for its refreshing and tangy taste. It’s made from a blend of spices and herbs, typically including cumin, mint, tamarind, and black salt. Jaljeera is often served chilled and is a great thirst-quencher, especially during hot summer days. It’s enjoyed for its unique flavor and digestive properties. Jaljeera … Read more

Masoor Dal Masoor dal, also known as red lentil, is a type of lentil widely used in Indian cooking and many other cuisines around the world. It is a small, lens-shaped legume that is quick to cook and has a rich, earthy flavor. Masoor dal is known for its nutritional value and versatility in various … Read more

Ash Gourd Ash gourd, scientifically known as Benincasa hispida, is a type of winter melon and a member of the gourd family (Cucurbitaceae). It is commonly cultivated in various parts of Asia, including India, China, and Southeast Asia. Ash gourd is also known by several other names, including winter melon, white gourd, and wax gourd. … Read more

Custard apple, scientifically known as Annona reticulata, is a tropical fruit that is native to the Americas but is now grown in many parts of the world, including Asia, Africa, and Australia. It is also commonly known by other names such as sugar apple, sweetsop, and cherimoya in different regions. Custard apples are typically green, … Read more

Urad dal, also known as black gram or black lentil, is a highly nutritious and widely used pulse in Indian cuisine. It is known for its distinct flavor and versatility in various dishes. Urad dal is a good source of protein, dietary fiber, vitamins (such as B-complex vitamins), and minerals (including iron, magnesium, and potassium). It … Read more

What is Gulkand? Gulkand, a sweet preserve made from rose petals, has several potential health benefits. Its natural cooling properties may help in alleviating heat-related issues. Additionally, it is known for its potential to aid digestion, improve skin health, and boost immunity. However, more scientific research is needed to establish its efficacy for these purposes. … Read more

Palm jaggery, also known as palm sugar or gur, is a natural sweetener that is produced from the sap of various species of palm trees. The sap is extracted by tapping the flower buds of the palm tree, and then it is concentrated to form a thick, dark brown, concentrated product. This process is common … Read more

What is Toor Dal? Toor dal is a type of lentil commonly used in cooking, especially in Indian cuisine. It’s known for its nutty and mild flavor, and it’s a staple in many traditional dishes. But what’s so great about toor dal, you might wonder? Well, let’s break it down in plain English. Nutrition: Toor … Read more

Moong dal, also known as mung beans or green gram, is a highly nutritious legume widely used in Indian and Asian cuisines. Moong dal is made by splitting and skinned mung beans. After removing the green husk, the remaining yellow dal is split in half, making it quick to cook. It is a common ingredient … Read more

About Idli Idli is a popular South Indian dish that is a type of savory rice cake. It is a traditional breakfast item and is also eaten as a snack. Idli is made by steaming a batter consisting of fermented rice and urad dal (black gram) until it becomes light and fluffy. The fermentation process … Read more

Rajma (Red kidney beans) scientifically known as Phaseolus vulgaris, are a variety of common beans and are a popular legume in many cuisines around the world. These kidney-shaped beans are typically red, although they can also be found in other colors such as white or spotted. Rajma is a popular North Indian dish made with … Read more

Parsley and cilantro. These leafy greens are like the friendly neighbors in your herb garden, and they each have their unique personalities, much like your favorite characters in a book. Let’s take a closer look at these two herbal neighbors and discover what makes them different. Parsley – The Fresh and Earthy Neighbor Parsley is … Read more

Rajgira, also known as amaranth, is a grain that’s been used in diets around the world for a very long time. It’s not very famous, but it’s incredibly healthy.  It’s not like wheat or rice. It’s part of a unique plant family called pseudocereals. These are plants that act like grains, but they’re not actually grains. … Read more

Cluster beans, also known as “gavar” or “guar,” might not be the most famous veggies, but they’re a powerhouse of nutrition that you should consider eating. These long, green pods aren’t just delicious; they’re packed with good things that can make you healthier. Packed with Nutrients: Cluster beans are full of important vitamins and minerals. … Read more

Snake gourd is a long, green vegetable that looks like a snake. People use it in cooking, especially in Asian and Indian dishes. It has a mild, slightly sweet taste and is good for you because it’s low in calories, has lots of fiber, and contains important vitamins and minerals. Eating snake gourd can help … Read more

What is Bottle Gourd? Bottle gourd, also known as calabash or lauki in some regions, is a common vegetable you might find in many kitchens. It gets its name because it often looks like a bottle or gourd shape when it grows. This vegetable is quite versatile and can be used in various culinary dishes. … Read more