Best dry fruits to add zing to your cooking
What's the story
Dried fruits make a great versatile addition to vegetarian dishes, both in terms of taste and nutrition.
They can amplify the taste and texture of a meal, making them much more palatable.
Loaded with essential nutrients, dried fruits also provide an easy way to amp up the nutrition quotient of your diet.
Here are some must-have dried fruits to enrich your vegetarian dishes.
Drive 1
Raisins: Sweetness in every bite
Raisins are an all-time favorite for adding natural sweetness to vegetarian dishes.
They are packed with iron and antioxidants, which promote overall health.
You can use raisins in salads, rice dishes, or even baked goodies to add a sweet contrast to savory flavors.
Their chewy texture adds an interesting element to a range of recipes.
Drive 2
Apricots: A tangy twist
Dried apricots give a tangy flavor that goes well with many vegetarian dishes.
They are also rich in fiber and vitamin A, which ensure good digestion and healthy eyesight.
Apricots can easily go in grain-based salads or can be served as a fruit compote with yogurt/oatmeal.
Their rich color also gives the dish an aesthetic appeal.
Drive 3
Dates: Natural energy boosters
Dates are famous for their natural sweetness and energy-boosting properties, thanks to their high sugar content.
They are rich in potassium and magnesium, which aid in maintaining electrolyte balance in the body.
Dates can also be blended into smoothies or chopped into tiny pieces and used in desserts or energy bars.
Drive 4
Figs: Fiber-rich delights
Figs are a delightful combination of textures, with their crunchy seeds and soft flesh.
They are also a powerhouse of dietary fiber, which helps with digestion and keeps you feeling fuller for long.
Ideal for cheese platters or as an ingredient in stews, figs add a depth of flavor to your dishes.
Their versatility makes them a great option for elevating vegetarian meals.
Drive 5
Prunes: Digestive health supporters
Prunes have long been hailed for their digestive benefits, owing to high fiber content and the natural laxative effect of sorbitol.
Apart from aiding digestion, prunes also add vitamins such as K, B6 as well as minerals like manganese.
The properties make prunes ideal additions not just to breakfast cereals, but also to savory sauces, where they add subtle sweetness without overpowering other ingredients.