The Hardy Pomegranate
Pomegranate is a resilient fruit available through the monsoon. When selecting one, look for a fruit that feels heavy for its size, which indicates juicy arils. The skin should be firm, smooth, and a deep, vibrant red. Avoid pomegranates with soft spots,
cracks, or dull-looking skin, as these are signs of bruising or drying out. The shape should be slightly squared or angular rather than perfectly round, which suggests the seeds inside are plump and fully developed. Once cut, the antioxidants in pomegranates begin to degrade when exposed to air, so it's best to consume them fresh.
The Juicy Jamun
A quintessential monsoon fruit, Jamun (or Indian blackberry) is prized for its sweet and tart flavour. Look for fruits that are plump, dark purple or almost black, and have a smooth, unblemished skin. A slight softness indicates ripeness, but steer clear of anything overly squishy, wrinkled, or leaky, as this suggests it's past its prime. Fresh Jamuns should feel firm. They are highly perishable, so it's best to consume them as soon as possible after purchase. Their deep colour is a sign of rich antioxidants.
Peaches and Plums
These stone fruits are a monsoon delight. For peaches, a strong, sweet aroma near the stem is a key indicator of ripeness. The fruit should have a rich, golden-yellow background colour and yield slightly to gentle pressure without being mushy. Avoid green patches. For plums, look for vibrant, deep-coloured skin with a dusty white coating, which is a natural bloom that protects the fruit. A ripe plum will feel heavy and slightly soft near the stem. Avoid any with bruises, wrinkles, or soft spots.
The Bright Cherry
Cherries are another popular choice during the rainy season in some regions. Opt for cherries that are plump, firm, and have a deep, glossy red colour. The green stems should still be attached and look fresh, not withered or brown. Avoid cherries that are soft, wrinkled, or have cuts, as they spoil quickly. Due to their delicate nature, they should be refrigerated and eaten within a few days of purchase to enjoy their sweet and slightly tart flavour at its best.
The Humble Pear
Pears (Nashpati) are an excellent monsoon fruit, known for being gentle on the stomach. Most pears are picked when mature but not fully ripe, so they may need a day or two at room temperature. A ripe pear will yield to gentle pressure near the stem. Check the skin for any bruises or dark, soft spots. The skin contains a good amount of fibre, so choose pears with smooth, unblemished skins. Once they are ripe, you can store them in the refrigerator to prolong their freshness.
General Tips for Monsoon Fruit Care
The high humidity during the monsoon accelerates spoilage and encourages microbial growth. Always wash fruits thoroughly under clean, running water right before you plan to eat them, not before storing. Storing wet produce can lead to mould. Dry them completely with a paper towel. For fruits like berries and stone fruits, it's wise to store them in the refrigerator in a paper bag or a container lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture. Avoid buying pre-cut fruits from vendors, as they have a higher risk of contamination during this season.
