Spiced Chikoo Slices
A quick and refreshing snack, Spiced Chikoo Slices offer a delightful balance of sweet fruit with a savory, spicy kick. Perfect for mindful eating, this simple preparation elevates the natural flavor of chikoo with minimal effort.
For 1 serving
Select a ripe chikoo: it should be soft to the touch but not mushy, with smooth, unblemished skin. Wash it thoroughly under cool running water.
Using a small paring knife or vegetable peeler, carefully peel the skin from the chikoo. Cut the fruit in half lengthwise.
Scoop out the black seeds and any fibrous core material using a spoon or the tip of your knife. Discard the seeds.
Place the chikoo halves flat-side down on a cutting board and slice them into uniform 1/4-inch (0.5 cm) thick pieces. Uniform slices ensure an even distribution of flavor and a pleasant eating experience.
Arrange the chikoo slices neatly on a small serving plate, ensuring they are not overlapping too much.
Evenly sprinkle a tiny pinch of fine sea salt over all the slices. Then, choose your spice: lightly dust with either Kashmiri chili powder for a gentle warmth and color, or green cardamom powder for a fragrant, sweet aroma.
Serve immediately and savor each spiced slice mindfully, appreciating the interplay of sweet, savory, and spicy notes.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Choosing the Right Chikoo: Ensure your chikoo is perfectly ripe. An underripe chikoo will be hard and astringent, while an overripe one might be too mushy. Look for a fruit that yields slightly to gentle pressure.
- 2Spice Customization: Adjust the amount of chili or cardamom powder to your personal preference. For more heat, add a bit more chili; for a stronger aromatic profile, increase the cardamom.
- 3Mindful Eating Practice: This snack is designed for mindful consumption. Take small bites, chew slowly, and focus on the textures and flavors to fully appreciate the experience and prevent overeating.
- 4Storage: Chikoo slices are best enjoyed immediately after preparation. If you must store them, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for no more than 1-2 hours, though the texture may soften.
Adapt it for your goals.
Herbal Infusion
Add a few finely chopped fresh mint leaves or a tiny sprinkle of dried ginger powder along with the other spices for an invigorating twist.
Tangy BrightnessTangy Brightness
After sprinkling the spices, grate a tiny amount of fresh lime or lemon zest over the slices for a bright, citrusy aroma that complements the sweet fruit.
Sweet & Spicy DrizzleSweet & Spicy Drizzle
For a dessert-like variation, lightly drizzle a few drops of honey or maple syrup over the spiced chikoo slices before serving.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Chikoo is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes bowel regularity, and can help maintain a healthy gut.
Natural Energy Booster
Packed with natural sugars like fructose and sucrose, chikoo provides a quick and sustained energy boost, making it an ideal snack for an afternoon pick-me-up.
Antioxidant Properties
This fruit contains vitamins A and C, along with other antioxidants, which help protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals and support overall immune health.
Frequently asked questions
Chikoo, also known as sapodilla or sapota, is a tropical fruit with a sweet, malty flavor and a slightly grainy texture, often compared to a pear or brown sugar. It's native to Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.
