Kantola Benefits: Kantoli vegetable, which is available only during three-four months of monsoon, has a storehouse of nutrients. If you think that power comes only from non-veg, then it is time to change this thinking.

Kantola or Kakoda is a vegetable which may be available for a short period of time, but its qualities make the vegetable very special.

The vitamins, minerals and fiber present in Kantola vegetable make it included in the list of superfoods. This is the reason why it is considered more powerful than non-veg. Let us know its benefits and reasons to include it in the diet.

Benefits of eating Kantola vegetable

Immunity Booster: Kantola is rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants. This increases the body's immunity. Eating it prevents seasonal diseases like cold and viral infections.

Sugar controlling: Kantola is no less than a boon for diabetes patients. The phytochemicals and low glycemic index present in it help in controlling blood sugar.

Improve digestion system: Kantola is rich in fiber, which provides relief from problems like constipation and acidity. It strengthens digestion and also helps in cleaning the intestines.

Keeps the heart healthy: Consumption of this vegetable helps in controlling cholesterol. Kantola prevents heart diseases and keeps blood pressure in balance.

Helpful in weight loss: Being low calorie and high-fibre, this vegetable is best for those looking to lose weight. It keeps the stomach full for a long time and reduces the habit of unhealthy snacking.

Beneficial for skin and hair: Eating Kantola removes toxins from the body, which keeps the skin clean and glowing. The minerals present in it are also helpful for hair strength and growth.

Kantola is one of the most expensive vegetables in monsoon.

However, its prices vary from city to city and state. Talking about wholesale, its average price is around ₹ 70- ₹ 90 per kg. The prices are slightly higher in online retail. Here the prices reach from ₹ 100 to ₹ 350.

What does Kantola taste like? How does Kantola taste?

The taste of Kantola is between bitter gourd and ridge gourd. It does not have bitterness like bitter gourd, but has slight astringency and crispness. After cooking, it appears slightly crunchy and slightly sweet, hence everyone likes to eat it.

The easiest vegetable recipe of Kantola (Dry Fry Style)

• Ingredients (for 2-3 people):
• Kantola - 250 grams (wash and cut into round slices or lengthwise)
• Onion- 2 (waxed cut)
• Green chilly - 2 (chopped)
• Turmeric - ½ tsp
• red chilli - ½ tsp
• Coriander Powder - 1 tsp
• Salt - as per taste
• Oil - 2 spoons

Method to make Kantola vegetable

• Heat oil in a pan, add onion and green chilli and fry lightly.
• Add chopped cantaloupe into it and stir well.
• Add salt and turmeric, cover on low flame and cook for 8-10 minutes.
• When it becomes soft, add red chilli and coriander powder and fry for 2 minutes.
• If desired, add lemon juice on top and serve with hot roti or paratha.

(Disclaimer: The content given in this article is for information only. NH does not endorse it. Before implementing any advice or suggestion, please consult an expert or doctor.)