Wood Apple, also known as Bael, is a tropical fruit native to India and Southeast Asia, which grows on a resilient tree that thrives in arid conditions and is commonly found in India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Bangladesh. The fruit has a hard, woody shell that requires a firm strike to crack open, revealing a fragrant, sticky pulp inside. The taste is a mix of sweet and tangy, with earthy notes. It is often consumed fresh, blended into drinks, or made into jams and chutneys.
One of the most popular ways to eat wood apple is as a refreshing summer beverage—its pulp is mixed with water, jaggery, or honey to create a cooling drink. The fruit pairs well with citrus fruits, coconut, and mild spices like cardamom. Nutritionally, wood apple is rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants while being relatively low in calories, making it a good option for digestion and gut health. Though naturally sweet, it has a moderate glycemic index and is suitable for most diets when consumed in moderation.
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