With the growing trend of a healthy lifestyle, people are switching to local farm fresh foods considering it is higher in nutrients, flavour, and taste. Despite the busy lives due to work and other personal commitments, the trend of gardening and growing their own produce is also accelerated as people have realised the importance and value of good health.
Of course, consuming fresh vegetables or fruits in the form of PURE healthy meals or juices is the healthiest choice you could ever make to support your overall health in the long run. It has become a key requirement due to a variety of reasons. Some of them are given below.
What Are The Benefits of Farm Fresh Foods?
- Farm fresh produce has exceptional flavour because the fruits and vegetables are allowed to ripen naturally before being harvested, which enhances their taste and aroma.
- It tends to retain more nutrients compared to items that have been transported long distances or stored for extended periods.
- Local farms offer a diverse range of fruits and vegetables that vary with the seasons. By consuming farm fresh produce, you can enjoy a wider selection of items throughout the year. This allows you to embrace seasonal eating.
- Buying farm fresh produce directly from local farmers helps support the local economy. It provides income to farmers and stimulates the growth of local agriculture.
- When you purchase farm fresh produce directly from local sources, you have more transparency in the production process. You can inquire about farming practices, pesticide use, or any other concerns you may have.
The health advantages of consuming farm fresh produce are many as mentioned above. There are numerous types of produce obtained in local farms depending on specific regions and preferences.
Among an array of options, some of the produce is often ignored due to a lack of awareness. However, considering the benefits they uphold you wouldn’t want to overlook them anymore.
Through a tad bit of research, we have compiled a list of farm fresh foods that are often overlooked. But it’s the time for them to shine!!
Keep scrolling to find out!
1. Ash Gourd (Safed Petha)
This “cool” vegetable is known for its numerous health benefits and cooling properties. Best to consume during rainy days, Ash Gourd or Safed Petha is a powerful ingredient that has been cherished in traditional medicine for centuries. This is a magical vegetable that tastes so good when used in curry, raita, and juices.
According to Ayurveda, drinking natural Ash gourd juice on an empty stomach is a cure for many illnesses. It is believed to have cooling properties and numerous health benefits thus a solution to many diseases when consumed on a regular basis. Ash gourd is also considered a Satvik food in Ayurveda. Also, it is great for hydration, weight loss, digestive system, and a must-have natural detox drink!
2. Sahjan or Drumstick or Moringa
The high nutritional value that Drumsticks (Sahjan) possess is unbelievable. They are majorly used in Sambar but when you will know the amazing benefits that they are infused with, you surely would not hold back to add them to a variety of savoury recipes. Packed with Vitamin C and antioxidants, it effectively helps combat the common cold, flu, and other seasonal illness. The anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties of the drumstick is responsible for controlling the symptoms of asthma, cough, and other respiratory problems.
You will be glad to know that even PM Narendra Modi swears by eating drumstick Parantha once or twice a week to boost his immunity. You can also make soups, curry, and pickle out of this incredibly healthy produce.
3. Amla (Indian Gooseberry)
The tiny superfruit Amla has made Hollywood celebrities its fan due to its incredible nutritional properties. It is also known as Indian gooseberry. Being high in vitamin C content, which boosts immunity and fights free radicals. It aids in digestion, improves skin and hair health, reduces inflammation, and promotes heart health. You can easily find beauty products and shampoo having amla as the primary ingredient.
Amla also has antioxidant properties that help prevent chronic diseases. Its nutrient-rich profile contributes to overall well-being and vitality. There are a number of ways amla can be used to make them an addition to your daily diet.
4. Beetroot
This root vegetable is known for its vibrant colour and earthy flavour. But sadly people don’t realise the benefits of this hidden treasure in the array of vegetables. This ruby-red veggie is a good source to support weight management, boost immunity, promote digestion, keep the skin nourished, strengthen the hair, and the best use out of all is to detox.
You can make many tasty recipes to consume beetroot as a part of your regular balanced diet that can truly please your taste buds. The next time you go for grocery shopping, don’t forget to add this vegetable to your cart.
5. Jackfruit (Kathal)
The largest tree fruit in the world- Jackfruit has bigger health benefits just like its size! The mildly flavoured tropical fruit includes an abundance of health benefits that’s why we have included in our list of farm fresh foods that are overlooked. In 2014, Down To Earth published a cover story on how this monsoon vegetable caught the fancy of entrepreneurs in India.
They are a good source of protein, dietary fiber, and several vitamins and minerals. Jackfruit seeds are known for their potential to boost energy levels, promote healthy digestion, and support heart health. The best part is- it can be included in both sweet and savoury recipes. Try as many creative recipes as you can and make the best out of this versatile farm fresh food.
You should know that Jackfruit Day is celebrated on July 4 every year.
6. Kale
Low in calories, and high in fibre, Kale is the king of leafy greens and for good reasons. You may just become a kale addict when you will know the amazing health advantages it is infused with. It is great to support your weight loss goals, increase the nutrient intake in your daily diet, beneficial for eye health, and important for optimal immune function.
Packed with vitamin C, omega-3s, fibre, and protein, Kale can be used in a variety of ways to make yummy recipes. You’re just one search away to find the easiest Indian kale recipes. Remember that kale has a strong flavour, so pair it well with the ingredients to balance the overall taste.
7. Sweet Potatoes
What do you add while making sweets at home? Sugar or maybe some natural healthy alternative, well now can add sweet potatoes too because it blends so well and add the natural sweetness. Sweet potatoes are not only healthy but end up so satisfying and flavourful with a variety of other savoury recipes too.
Just one sweet potato gives you 400% of vitamin A according to webmd thus keeping your immune system and eyes healthy. They also help control blood sugar level so if you’re diabetic, definitely consider such healthy options.
The famous Chef “Yotam Ottolenghi”, once has said - Sweet potatoes are ideal for lazy days: just bake, then mash and mix with yogurt, butter or olive oil.
Final Thoughts
Farm fresh food benefits are enormous depending on their nutritional profiles so incorporating them into your diet can provide a range of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that support overall well-being. Try different recipes everyday to not get bored of the same taste and yet include them as a part of your well-balanced diet.
If you want to eat healthy and pure, do give a try to OMKITCHEN organic meals which are prepared with premium farm fresh, seasonal, and organic produce as well as ingredients, and tastes so good yet homely that you’ll keep on asking for more.
