Rare Indian Fruits you’ve Never Heard of but are a Must-Try

You’ve probably heard a million times about the benefits of eating more fruits, but when it comes to trying exotic options, your wallet seems to object. While everyone’s reaching for the latest imported fruit from some faraway land, why not look a little closer to home? Well, we’ve got a secret to share – rare and exotic fruits that you might not have heard of but are packed with incredible health benefits, delicious flavours, and a touch of Indian magic. Ready to be amazed? Let’s dive into the wonderful world of unique Indian fruits that deserve a place on your plate!

1. Jungli Jalebi (Kodukkapuli)

Have you ever heard of a fruit that tastes like a tangy, lemony treat but comes in a pod shape like a jalebi? Jungli Jalebi, also known as Kodukkapuli, is a tropical gem that is cherished across Southern India for its unique sweet and sour flavour. With its edible, spiralled brown or red pods, this fruit, scientifically named Pithecellobium dulce, is found predominantly in regions like Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Maharashtra. In Telugu, it's called "Seema Chintakaya," while in Kannada, it’s "Seema Hunase." The fruit's pulp, which has a tangy, lemonade-like taste, is rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, supporting immune health and digestion. Often used in curries or as a snack, its sweet-sour balance adds flavour to various dishes. Not only delicious but also beneficial, Jungli Jalebi should definitely be on your must-try list for a burst of tropical excitement.

2. Buddha’s Hand

Imagine a fruit shaped like a hand—fingers stretching out in all directions. That’s Buddha’s Hand! This unique citrus fruit, also known as the fingered citron, has a striking appearance with its bright yellow fingers. While it may look unusual, it emits a pleasant, lemony fragrance that makes it a popular natural air freshener. Cultivated primarily in Northeast India and China, Buddha’s Hand is used in culinary creations for zesting or infusing alcohol. It’s also used in religious offerings as a symbol of happiness and good fortune. If you're seeking a fruit that adds a zing to both your food and your home, Buddha's Hand is the way to go!

3. Phalsa (Indian Sherbet Berry)

Looking for a cool, tangy treat for those hot summer days? Phalsa, or Indian Sherbet Berry, is a tiny yet mighty fruit that packs a punch! This dark purple berry is commonly found in India's northern and western regions, especially in Punjab and Rajasthan. Not just for sherbet, Phalsa has been known to help with digestion and boost the immune system. The refreshing taste, a blend of sweet and sour, makes it a delightful addition to juices, jams, and even desserts. Full of antioxidants and vitamins, Phalsa is your perfect summer snack!

4. Chalta (Elephant Apple)

Found in the dense forests of Bengal and parts of Northeast India, Chalta, also called Elephant Apple, is a fruit that will surprise you with its sharp, sour taste. With a tough, green rind and sour pulp, it’s not the fruit you'd casually snack on, but it’s commonly used in chutneys, pickles, jams and even curries. In traditional cooking, Chalta adds a tangy twist that is simply irreplaceable. Besides its culinary value, this fruit is also known for its medicinal properties. It's rich in vitamin C, which is used in folk medicine to treat ailments like boosting immunity and digestion.

5. Bael (Aegle Marmelos)

The Bael fruit, often considered sacred in Hinduism, is known for its hard, woody outer shell and sweet, aromatic pulp. Native to India, this fruit is commonly used to make delicious drinks like bael sherbet or bael syrup during the summer months. It has immense medicinal value and is known to treat digestive disorders, including constipation and diarrhoea. Rich in nutrients like vitamins and minerals, Bael is a powerful, natural remedy for a variety of ailments, making it both a treat for the taste buds and a healer for the body.

6. Langsah (Lotka or Langsat)

A hidden gem of the Nilgiri Hills in South India, Langsah, or Langsat, is a small, translucent fruit that changes its flavour as it ripens. Initially sour, it transforms into a sweet, tangy fruit with hints of grapefruit-like bitterness when fully ripe. Though small in size, Langsah packs a flavour punch. Its unique texture and taste make it a favourite among locals, who use it in both fresh and dried forms for a variety of culinary creations. If you ever find yourself in the Nilgiris, don’t miss the chance to taste this amazing fruit!

7. Star Fruit (Kamranga)

Looking for something that’s both a treat for the eyes and the palate? Star Fruit, also known as Kamranga, gets its name from its star-shaped cross-section. A tropical fruit with a balance of sweet and tangy flavours, it is rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals. Commonly found in tropical regions of India, Kamranga is often eaten raw, juiced or used in chutneys and salads. It’s also known for its digestive and immune-boosting properties, making it a great addition to your diet!

8. Khasi Papeda

Found in the Khasi Hills of Meghalaya, Khasi Papeda is a non-edible citrus fruit used primarily for medicinal purposes. The bitter fruit is typically used to treat conditions like kidney stones, making it an important part of the region's traditional healing practices. Though the Khasi Papeda fruit is not consumed directly, its medicinal value and unique presence in the ecosystem make it a fascinating species in India’s biodiversity.

9. Japani Phal (Japanese Persimmon)

Native to the Himalayan regions of India, Japani Phal, or Japanese Persimmon, is known for its sweet, honey-like taste. Often eaten fresh or dried, this fruit has a soft, smooth texture and is rich in vitamins like A and C. Not only does it taste amazing, but Japani Phal is also believed to have several health benefits, including improving skin health and regulating blood pressure. Whether you eat it raw or turn it into jams, this fruit is a must-try.

10. Mangosteen (Queen of Fruits)

Known as the Queen of Fruits, the Mangosteen is a small, round fruit with a thick purple rind and sweet, juicy white segments inside. It’s not just popular for its unique taste but also for its amazing health benefits, including its antioxidant-rich properties that aid in immune function. While it’s mostly cultivated in Southeast Asia, Mangosteen is also found in parts of India, especially in tropical regions like Kerala. The soft, tangy flavour and delightful aroma make it a truly exotic fruit worth seeking out. This fruit, rich in calcium and antioxidants, is also known for its digestive and immune-boosting properties. 

11. Rambutan

Rambutan, a tropical fruit originating from Southeast Asia, is increasingly cultivated in the southern parts of India, especially in Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. Known for its hairy red or green skin, rambutan has a sweet, mildly acidic flavour similar to lychee. The fruit's translucent flesh contains a large seed that is not typically consumed. Cultivated primarily through grafting, air-layering, and budding, rambutan thrives in warm, humid climates and well-drained loamy soil. The fruit is rich in Vitamin C, manganese, and antioxidants, offering immune support and promoting skin health. In India, it's grown under cultivars like ‘Arka Coorg Arun’ and ‘N18’. Rambutan is also gaining popularity in the Indian market, both for consumption and export.

12. Lubika (Indian Coffee Plum)

Lubika, also known as the Indian Coffee Plum or Flacourtia jangomas, is commonly found in the southern parts of India, especially along the Western Ghats in Kerala. This small, round, red fruit has a slightly sweet and sour taste and is typically eaten raw with salt and chilli powder or pickled. Lubika is used in curries and jams, adding a tangy twist to traditional Indian dishes. Beyond its culinary uses, it also has medicinal value, as it is believed to possess antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-diabetic properties. The tree thrives in both lowland and mountain rainforests, preferring loamy, well-drained soils and partial shade. In Kerala, it's widely called “lubica” or “lovlolika” and is an integral part of the local diet and folk medicine.

13. Ambarella (Indian Hog Plum)

Ambarella, or Indian Hog Plum, is a fruit found in India’s tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra. Known for its tangy flavour, the fruit is consumed fresh or used in pickles, curries, and fruit tarts. Its ripe flesh, which turns golden yellow, has a sweet-sour taste, while unripe fruits are used for their sharp tang. Ambarella is rich in vitamins A and C, which contribute to immune support and digestive health. It is grown in hot, humid climates and thrives in well-drained soils. Known locally as “Amra” or “Amrataka,” the fruit is not only enjoyed in culinary dishes but also used in traditional remedies for sore throats and rheumatism.

14. Cherimoya (Sitafal)

Cherimoya, also called Sitafal or Custard Apple in India, is a creamy, sweet fruit widely grown in subtropical areas, particularly in North India. The fruit, known for its cone-shaped green skin, has a flavour reminiscent of pineapple, banana, and strawberry. It is consumed fresh or used in desserts like smoothies, ice cream, and fruit salads. Cherimoya is rich in vitamins, fibre, and antioxidants, making it beneficial for immune function and skin health. While it is not commonly found throughout India, it is available in specialised markets during late winter and early spring. In some regions, Sitafal is also used in traditional medicine to treat digestive issues.

15. Taalsas

Ice apple, also known as Talsas, Nungu, or Tadgola, is a refreshing summer fruit that grows on the Palmyra palm tree (Borassus flabellifer), primarily found in coastal regions of India, such as Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Kerala. The fruit has a translucent, jelly-like texture with a mildly sweet taste, making it a popular natural hydrating treat. It’s rich in water content, vitamins like A, C, and E, and essential minerals such as calcium and potassium. The fruit’s cooling properties make it perfect for combating heat exhaustion during the scorching summer months. In different regions, it's called Nungu in Tamil, Tadgola in Marathi, and Taal in Bengali. Ice apple is not only enjoyed raw but also used in beverages, desserts, and salads. Its high fibre content aids digestion and prevents constipation, making it a healthy snack. The Palmyra palm is traditionally cultivated in tropical climates, where the fruit is harvested during summer and is also used in folk medicine for skin issues and digestive relief. So, which one are you most excited to taste?