The Majestic Jamun (Black Plum)
A quintessential monsoon fruit, the jamun evokes nostalgia with its unique sweet and tart flavour that leaves a purple stain on the tongue. When selecting jamun, look for fruits that are a deep purple or almost black, as this indicates ripeness and sweetness.
They should have smooth, glossy skin and feel firm, but with a slight give when pressed gently. Avoid fruits that are green, reddish, or overly soft and mushy. A fresh jamun will have a mild, pleasant aroma; if it smells fermented or sour, it's best to pass. Because they are delicate, they should be refrigerated and consumed within a day or two for the best taste.
Lush Litchis
The arrival of litchis is a sure sign that the rainy season is in full swing. These sweet, succulent fruits are a favorite for their refreshing, juicy flesh. To pick the best ones, look for a bright pinkish-red shell, which is a key indicator of ripeness. While some browning is acceptable, avoid litchis that are green or have large dark patches, as they may be unripe or spoiled. A ripe litchi should feel firm but yield slightly to gentle pressure and feel heavy for its size, suggesting it's full of juice. They should also have a light, floral fragrance. Since litchis don't ripen further after being picked, choosing a good batch at the market is essential.
Perfect Peaches (Aadu)
Known for their velvety skin and juicy, aromatic flesh, peaches are a delightful treat during the monsoon. A ripe peach has a strong, sweet, and floral fragrance right around the stem. The colour should be a deep, golden-yellow, and the fruit should feel heavy and plump. Gently press the peach; it should be slightly soft, much like a ripe avocado. Avoid peaches that are overly hard, have green patches, or are mushy, as these are signs of being either unripe or overripe. Their sweet and slightly acidic profile makes them perfect for eating fresh or adding to desserts.
Plump Plums (Aloo Bukhara)
Plums come in various colours, from deep purple to ruby red, and their vibrant skin is a sign of ripeness. Look for fruit with rich, deep colour and a powdery white coating, which is a natural bloom that indicates freshness. A ripe plum should feel firm but give slightly when squeezed near the stem area. Stay away from plums that are rock-hard or have mushy spots and blemishes. Their flavour can range from sweet to tart, making them a versatile fruit for both snacking and cooking.
Cherries' Fleeting Visit
The Indian cherry season is short and sweet, primarily running from mid-May to early July, so it's a treat to be enjoyed while it lasts. When buying cherries, look for those with a shiny exterior and deep, vibrant colour. They should be firm to the touch, not hard. A key sign of freshness is a green stem still attached; brown or blackened stems suggest the fruit is old. Cherries are highly perishable, so it's best to consume them soon after purchase to enjoy their signature sweet-tart flavour.
Refreshing Pears (Nashpati)
The crisp, juicy pear is another monsoon staple that offers a refreshing break. Unlike many other fruits, pears ripen after being picked, so it's often best to buy them when they are still firm. To check for ripeness, gently press your thumb near the neck of the pear. If it yields to pressure, it's ripe and ready to eat. Avoid pears with soft spots or bruises. You can leave firm pears on your counter for a few days to ripen to perfection. Their sweet flavour and grainy texture make them a delicious and hydrating snack during the humid monsoon months.
