Kerala's Pottu Vellari, The Rare GI Tagged Summer Fruit That Is ONLY Relished When Cracked Open

Kerala is home to many dishes and indigenous fruits that will take your munching to another level. One such unique element that often takes centre stage during the scorching summer months is ‘Pottu vellari.’ Come summer, the hot waves start hitting everyone, and if you are looking for delicious fruits or summer treats to escape the heat, knowing about this fruit is an absolute must.

Also Read: Kerala's Kottayam Thalanad Clove Gets A GI Tag, Becomes A Sensation In Spice Market

What is Pottu Vellari?

Also referred to as snap melon or blonde cucumber, the fruit has earned a prestigious geographical indication tag back in 2022. The rare fruit looks very similar to a cucumber and belongs to the Cucurbitaceae or gourd family. The smooth, oblong ingredient is relished widely during the scorching summer heat.

The humble fruit is only consumed once it’s cracked open. Although it has a short shelf life, the cooling properties and nutritional value have driven its growing popularity in Kerala over the past few years.

Snap melon is in severe short supply as the main season of cultivation gets over. Mainly cultivated around February and March, the supply of the fruit is usually limited. The fruit is grown and shipped to Kochi and its outer hubs like North Paravur, where the juice prepared from the fruit is sold in almost every juice shop.

What does pottu vellari taste like?

The flesh of a snap melon is typically light orange in colour, and once the cucumber-like fruit is cracked and ripe, the sweeter it’ll be. The chunks of snap melon are served with added sweetness.

How is the fruit healthy?

Many sources and experts claim that the pulpy summer fruit is considered highly beneficial to the body as it is loaded with microfibers that can surely keep the body healthy and hearty. Considered an excellent thirst-buster during summer season, the fruit can instantly cool down the body and incorporate immense vitamins and minerals into the body.

Loaded with antioxidant properties to raise the body's immunity, this cucumber like fruit is a must-have during the scorching summer months. Snap melons are believed to be packed with phytonutrients, vitamin C, folic acid and potassium, which not only smoothen the texture of the skin but add a refreshing layer to the body as well. Loaded with high fibre content, this cooling ingredient works as a natural cleanser and appetite improver as well.

Nutritional benefits

Snap melons are believed to be a great source of folic acid, beta carotene and Vitamin C. The fat-free fruits regulate body temperature and moisturise the skin as well. Coming over to the downside of the fruit, the ingredient is packed with wholesome health benefits, and its short shelf life usually gets overshadowed by it.

How can you use snap melon?

The fruit, snap melon, is savoured widely as phoot ki chaat, which is widely consumed in parts of Rajasthan during the summer season. Snap melon is one of the best ingredients to be savoured or relished in shakes, salads, and fresh juices. The juice has managed to become a hit, and people have started sowing it with a high frequency with the growing demand. The snap melon seed kernels are also used in bakery products and a popular traditional drink known as Thandai.