Kakdi To Kachri, 3 Vegetables Found In Rajasthan That Are Locals’ Favourite In Summer

India’s diverse culture is synonymous with its varied food heritage. From Jammu and Kashmir to Kerala, and Gujarat to Arunachal Pradesh, the variety of region-specific vegetables are unique in terms of taste but offer excellent health benefits. Three such vegetables, which are quite famous in Rajasthani cuisine are Fali aka Guar (cluster beans), Kakdi (cucumber) and Kachri (wild melon). Apart from being known for its historical temples, grand and lavish palaces and desert, Rajasthan is reputed for its blazing heat in the summer season. In such circumstances, it is important to eat food and vegetables that are hydrating and would keep the body cool. The natives indulge in vegetables, which require less water. Three famous vegetables, found in Bikaner, which even foreign tourists have been indulging in with utmost enthusiasm are Fali/Guar, Kakdi and Kachri. The natives prefer to eat these vegetables with millet roti. These vegetables can grow even in soaring temperatures of 45 to 50° Celsius.

In an interview with Local18, shopkeeper Manu Lal Kacchawa shared that these vegetables have already arrived in the market. The season of these three vegetables has just begun and will last easily till October or November. These three vegetables are particularly cultivated in the fields near the Bikaner region. The consumption of these vegetables has increased in Rajasthan. As per the shopkeeper, Fali/Guar is being sold at Rs 60 to Rs 90 per kilogram. Cucumbers are being sold at Rs 12 to Rs 15 per kg and Kachri (wild melon) is selling at Rs 15 per kg.

As per Ayurvedic doctor Amit Gehlot, eating these local vegetables has many benefits. He shared in the interview that eating Kachri has many benefits. Consuming kachri can help in preventing various diseases as it contains powerful antioxidants. Generally, it is dried, turned into powder and then eaten. Kachri powder is quite common in Rajasthani cuisine. Guar is also packed with nutrients and is beneficial for the body. It helps in maintaining sugar levels, improves blood pressure, helps in digestion, keeps the mind calm and is good for the heart. Regular consumption of this vegetable can also aid weight loss. Kakdi has a higher water content. Apart from antioxidants, it is great for hydration, soothes the eyes, great for digestion, regulates blood pressure and helps keep the body cool.