Overview

Muskmelon, also known as cantaloupe is a species of the melon family which has been developed into other varieties of fruits as well. It has an off-white hard rind and orange flesh which is very soft and juicy. Muskmelon grows well in warm, subtropical and temperate climates. In India, this fruit is consumed in various forms.

Nutritional Profile (Per 100 grams)

Calories- 34
Total fat- 0.2 grams
Carbohydrates- 8 grams
Protein- 0.8 grams
Sugar- 8 grams
Cholesterol- 0 mg
Sodium- 16 mg
Potassium- 267 mg
Vitamin C- 61%
Vitamin A- 67%

Health Benefits

Muskmelons are very good for eye sight.
They are very low in calories and yet nutrition-dense, hence, very good for weight loss diets.
Muskmelons are full of skin-friendly collagen, which helps keep the skin tissues tight.
Muskmelons being rich in vitamin C is a great food which can be added to your diet for strong immunity.
Because of its high water content, muskmelon can keep you hydrated.
As muskmelons are rich in vitamin A, it can be very helpful for your hair too. As vitamin A gives you a healthy hair and good hair growth.

Uses

Perfumes- A lot of companies use muskmelons for their pleasant fragrance.
Liquor- Various fine quality liquors are made with muskmelon flavour.

Recipes

1. Muskmelon Milkshake

Ingredients: Muskmelon, cold milk, sugar, cardamom powder, dry fruits, ice cubes.

Cooking steps: Peel the muskmelon and chop into small pieces. Blend all the ingredients in a mixer jar. Once mixed, add cardamom powder and garnish with dry fruits.

2. Khurbooja/ Muskmelon sabzi
Ingredients: Khurbooja, mustard seeds, cumin seeds, oil, asafoetida, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, coriander powder and salt.

Cooking steps: Heat a pan and add oil to it. Add mustard and cumin seeds along with a pinch of asafoetida to this hot oil. Then add peeled and chopped musk melons, mix well and cook for 5-6 minutes and garnish with coriander leaves. Serve hot with chapatis or rice.