Move over mangoes: 8 delicious Indian berries to try this summer

Whenever one thinks of summer fruits, the usual picks are mangoes and watermelons, and rightfully so. From their taste to their refreshing nature and ability to beat the heat, these fruits have little competition. But can you think of an underrated fruit that often gets overlooked?

The answer is berries. No, not the usual strawberries or raspberries. India's native berry varieties deserve a place on your summer plate too.

Check out these different kinds of berries you should try before their season ends. How many of these did you already know about?

Karonda

If you ever wondered what those small pink fruits sold by almost every vegetable or fruit vendor, chances are it is Karonda. Its tangy flavour is a highlight. Found across many parts of India during summer, it is known for its vitamin C content and is commonly turned into pickles, chutneys, and preserves.

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Kilmora

If you visit the Himalayan states during summer, you might come across Kilmora growing on thorny shrubs along the hillsides. These bright red berries are a familiar seasonal fruit in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh. It is either eaten fresh or used in homemade juices and jams. It is known for its antioxidants.

Shatoot

There is a reason mulberry trees attract so much attention when the fruits are in season. Known as Shatoot in many parts of India, their juicy texture makes them a popular summer fruit. They are also used in drinks, syrups, and desserts.

Kokam

In coastal western India, few summer drinks are as popular as kokam sherbat. The fruit itself has a dark purple skin and a distinctly sour flavour that stands out in both beverages and food. Widely used in Goa, Maharashtra, and Karnataka, kokam is often added to curries and traditional coastal recipes.

Hisalu

For many people in Uttarakhand, spotting Hisalu in the wild is a sign that summer has arrived. These golden-yellow berries grow naturally in the Himalayan hills and are usually picked and eaten fresh.

Cape Gooseberry

Cape gooseberry is hard to miss because each fruit comes wrapped in a delicate papery covering. Peel it back and you will find a bright orange berry with a sweet-tangy flavour. Naturally found in regions of South America, these are grown in several hill regions of India. It is rich in vitamins A and C.

Star Gooseberry

Star Gooseberry gets its name from the star-shaped pattern visible when the fruit is cut open. These pale yellow-green berries are widely cultivated across southern and eastern India. Their tart flavour makes them a common ingredient in pickles and chutneys