Kokum

Kokum, also named as Garcinia indica or kokam, is a spice that is derived from the plant in the Mangosteen family. This is fruit bearing tree that has culinary and various medicinal uses. It is native to the Western Ghats region of India.This spice is mainly found on the west coast of the Konkan, Goa, Karnataka, and North Malabar and also found in West Bengal, Nicobar Island, and Assam.

Description:

Kokum is derived from the Kokum Tree. The kokum is usually sold as a dried rind, dark purple to black, sticky and with curled edge.  The Fruits of this tree are picked when ripe and the rind is then removed. After that, the rind is soaked in the juice of the pulp and then sun dried. It adds a pinkish purple color and sweet or sour taste in food.

Storage:

Kokum can be stored in an airtight container away from moisture, heat, and sunlight. Then, they will remain their flavor for about one year.

Uses:

Kokum has the same sour taste as tamarind, especially enhancing the flavor in curries or Vegetable dishes like Potatoes, Ladyfinger, and lentils. It is also used with fish curries, meat, and poultry dishes. The fresh fruit is preserved with sugar to make a bright red squash, that is diluted with water to make a refreshing drink.

Health Benefits:

There are many Health’s Benefits mentioned below,

• Acts Anti-oxidant
• Acts Anti-Bacterial
• Acts Anti-Fungal
• Prevents Cancer
• Improve Indigestion
• Encourage Appetite
• Improve Blood Circulation
• Prevents Dehydration
• Prevent Obesity
• Reduce Cholesterol
• Prevent Allergies
• Improve Immunity

Nutritional Value of Kokum:

Nutritional Value of Kokum contain per 100gms is mentioned below:

Energy                                73 kcal

Carbohydrates                  17.91 g

Fiber         1.8 g

Fat                                       0.58 g

Protein                                0.41 g

Vitamins

Vitamin A                           35 IU

Vitamin C                           2.9 mg

Thiamin                              0.054 mg

Riboflavin                          0.054 mg

Niacin                                 0.286 mg

Vitamin B6                         0.018 mg

Folate                                  31 mcg

Minerals

Calcium                               12 mg

Iron                                      0.30 mg

Magnesium                         13 mg

Phosphorus                         8 mg

Potassium                            48 mg

Sodium                                 7 mg

Zinc                                       0.21 mg

Properties:

Shape:  Skinny rind

Size:  4 cm

Color: Brownish red or dark blackish red

Taste:  Sour