ALIMENTARY Apricots

THIS GOLDEN GEM IS A TREASURE TROVE OF VITALITY.

- By Pranjal Shah

Dubious in history, rich in folklore and nutrients, apricots are a type of fruit closely related to peaches, plums, cherries and almonds.

Sweet and juicy with a slightly sour undertone and garbed in bright yellow and orange, they find early mention in trade-wares along The Silk Route. While thought to have been domesticated in ancient China, archaeological findings place them in ancient Armenia as well. These then spread to Central Asia and the Middle East before reaching the Mediterranean. They eventually found their way to Europe, attaining a global status.

Fabled symbolisms aside, apricots pack a punch, both in terms of taste as well as nutrients. They are rich in Vitamins A, B, C and E along with minerals like zinc, potassium, copper, iron and magnesium. The benefits do not stop there. They also contain polyphenols, carotenoids and flavonoids, known for their antioxidant properties. Besides, apricots can be had fresh and raw, dried, canned as well as make for healthy ingredients in savoury dishes. Their versatile nature means they can be incorporated into our daily diet as individual fruits as well as palatable supplements.