Origin - Indian fig is native to Mexico.
Scientific Name - Opuntia ficus indica
Appearance - The flesh of the fruit will be in bright red/purple or white/yellowish color. The fruit contains many tiny seeds that are usually swallowed.
Indian Fig is rich in Magnesium and vitamin C, in addition to the minerals and vitamins given in the table this fruit also contains around 9.7 g of Carbohydrates, 0.5 g of fats, 1.7 g of Ash, 88 g of Moisture and 0.7 g of protein.
Vitamins (Per 100 g) | |
Vitamin B3 (Niacin) |
0.50 mg |
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) |
0.06 mg |
Vitamin B1 (thiamin) |
0.014 mg |
Vitamin C | 14.1 mg |
Minerals ( Per 100 g) | |
Calcium | 56.2 mg |
Iron | 0.3 mg |
Phosphorus | 23.5 mg |
Magnesium | 84.6 mg |
Sodium | 5 mg |
Potassium | 219 mg |
Indian fig opuntia is a species of cactus. Indian fig takes an oval form when it is ripe and of a color inclining to yellow. It has a thick juicy rind, so covered with fine sharp prickles, as to render gloves, or some other substitute necessary, when peeling it. The plants flower in three distinct colors: white, yellow and red.
The fruit is often used in the preparation of Jams and Jellies which resembles both strawberries and figs in flavor and color. Opuntia ficus indica is used as a dietary supplement to decrease oxidative stress and lower blood lipid levels.
How to buy? Choose the fruit that has a deep, even color that gives the most enjoyable sweet flavor.
Look for - Purple or deep orange color.
How to eat ? If the spines of the fruit are not removed, Hold the pear with gloves and put the fruit in a tub of cold water. Remove the skin of the pear by cutting the top and bottom ends with a sharp knife. Cut along the skin of the pear from top to bottom by making the cut deep enough to lever a knife in and peel off the skin.