Pumpkin


Also known as: 
Kaddu, Lal Bhopla

Description: 
The pumpkin is poor man's source of carotene in India. It is the member of the Cucurbitaceae family which come in many different varieties. While each type varies in shape, color, size and flavor, they all have hard protective skins that are difficult to pierce that give them a long storage life. 

Commonly used in: 
Soups,curries, raitha,salad,soup etc.

Health benefit: 
Among other things, pumpkin is the perfect vegetable for persons who watch their weight.
It is very rich in potassium, low in calories and full of magnesium and iron. Pumpkin helps regulate cholesterol levels and aiding in the prevention and treatment of bladder and prostate problems. It is also one of the highest sources of alpha-carotene.