Plum with Skin
Lunch • India
How to Make Plum with Skin Chaat (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Plum with skin, known locally as 'Aloo Bukhara', is a tangy and juicy fruit widely enjoyed across India, especially during the summer months. This healthy and refreshing Plum Chaat recipe builds upon the natural flavors of the fruit, enhancing it with classic Indian spices. Traditionally, street vendors in North India sell fruit chaats that combine seasonal fruits, lemon juice, and chaat masala, making them a favorite midday snack or light lunch. Rich in antioxidants, plums are celebrated for their sweet-tart flavor and vibrant color. They are often associated with the monsoon season, when the markets are brimming with fresh produce. The plum’s skin adds texture, fiber, and a delightful chewiness, making it an excellent ingredient for a wholesome Indian salad or chaat. This dish is especially popular during festivals like Teej and Raksha Bandhan, where light and nutritious snacks are preferred. Combining plums with cucumber, roasted peanuts, and a sprinkle of kala namak (black salt) makes this chaat not only delicious but also very healthy for calorie-conscious eaters.
Ingredients(for 1 medium bowl per person)
- 6 medium Fresh plums with skin (Aloo Bukhara) (ripe, washed and deseeded)
- 1 small Cucumber (peeled and diced)
- 2 tbsp Roasted peanuts (moongphali) (crushed)
- 1 tsp Chaat masala
- 1/2 tsp Kala namak (black salt)
- 1/4 tsp Red chili powder (lal mirch)
- 2 tbsp Fresh coriander leaves (dhaniya) (finely chopped)
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice (nimbu ras) (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tsp Honey (optional, for extra sweetness) - optional
- 2 tbsp Pomegranate seeds (anaar dana) (for garnish) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Wash the plums thoroughly. Cut them into bite-sized pieces, removing the seeds but keeping the skin intact.
4 minutes
Choose plums that are slightly firm for best texture.
- 2
Peel and dice the cucumber into small cubes. Combine with the chopped plums in a large mixing bowl.
3 minutes
Use seedless cucumber for a less watery chaat.
- 3
Add roasted peanuts to the bowl. Mix the ingredients gently to avoid bruising the plums.
2 minutes
Roast peanuts at home for richer flavor and crunch.
- 4
Sprinkle chaat masala, kala namak, and red chili powder over the fruit and peanuts.
1 minute
Adjust spices according to your taste preference.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This Plum with Skin Chaat is a healthy Indian lunch option because it uses fresh fruits, minimal oil, and natural spices. It is free from added sugars (if honey is omitted), low in calories, and high in antioxidants and fiber. The combination of fruits, nuts, and spices makes it filling and nutrient-dense, ideal for weight management, diabetes, and heart health. The recipe is easily adaptable for vegan and gluten-free diets.
Plums are low in calories yet rich in dietary fiber, promoting good digestion and satiety. The fruit is a source of vitamins C and K, antioxidants, and minerals like potassium and copper. Including the skin increases fiber content, which helps regulate blood sugar and cholesterol. Peanuts add plant-based protein and healthy fats, while cucumber hydrates and provides additional vitamins. This chaat is naturally gluten-free, low in fat, and suitable for most diets.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use a mix of ripe and slightly tart plums for balanced flavor.
- 💡Tip 2: Always add lemon juice and spices just before serving to keep fruits crisp.
- 💡Tip 3: Toast peanuts on a tawa for extra crunch and aroma.
Storage & Serving
Best consumed fresh. If storing, keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 6 hours. Add lemon juice and garnishes just before serving.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 30.0 kcal |
