Citrus fruits

PACKED WITH GOODNESS, CITRUS FRUITS HAVEN’T FOUND THEIR MOMENT IN THE SUN. SO WE GOT CHEF JAYANAND BHASKAR TO WHIP UP SOME INNOVATIVE, SWEET-AND-SOUR SURPRISES

You want to balance flavours in your food? Sprinkle a wee bit of lemon. Want to add natural sweetness and fibre in your salad (or breakfast)? Add oranges to it.

Hardly anyone realises that the humble lemons and oranges lying around in our refrigerators are actually super foods. Fact is, the unusual chemical contour of citrus fruits translates into vitamins (especially C) and acids, excellent for metabolism, energy retention and enzyme creation.

Additionally, a mediumsized orange contains approximately 3 grams of fibre. What’s more, citrus fruits have a low GI Index, so it is excellent for diabetics and even heart-disease patients. Citrus fruits are great for the immune system, refreshing and hydrating. Adding to it all, these are brilliant for the skin, nourish and boost hair growth, and help with weight loss. Interestingly, even the citrus peels come in handy. Add to your bath water so you smell fresh or substitute it for a chewing gum.

“From carrying aroma to food and beverage to providing a vigorous dose of vitamins, there are plenty of reasons to appreciate citrus. A dash of it will add a little zest not only in your food but also in your life,” shares Chef Jayanandan Bhaskar, who is a ‘farmer chef’ at Karma Lakelands Golf Resort.

So grab these and add them in your diet as a sauce, taste enhancer, solid snack or revitalising juice. No matter how you plan on using them, remember what they say: “Take life one lemon at a time and be grateful for every single squeeze.”