Authentic Indian Fruit Chaat Recipe – Apple, Banana & Pomegranate

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Authentic Indian Fruit Chaat Recipe – Apple, Banana & Pomegranate

Okay, let’s be real. Sometimes you just need something refreshing, sweet, and a little bit tangy, right? This fruit chaat is exactly that! It’s a vibrant mix of flavors and textures that’s super easy to whip up, and honestly, it’s one of my go-to recipes when I want a quick, healthy snack or a light dessert. I first made this for a summer picnic with friends, and it was a huge hit – everyone asked for the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just any fruit salad. It’s chaat! That means it’s got that signature Indian flavor bomb – sweet, savory, spicy, and tangy all at once. It’s incredibly refreshing, takes minutes to prepare, and is a fantastic way to enjoy seasonal fruits. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and easily adaptable to be vegan!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious fruit chaat:

• 1 cup curd (approximately 240ml)
• 1 medium-sized apple
• 1 medium-sized banana
• 1 small to medium-sized pomegranate (for the arils)
• 2-3 tablespoons raw sugar (or to taste – about 25-40g)
• ?? teaspoon roasted cumin powder (about 5g – start with 1/2 tsp and adjust)
• 1-2 pinches rock salt (kala namak – about 1-2g)
• 1-2 pinches red chili powder (about 0.5-1g)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a sec! Using good quality curd is key – I prefer a slightly thick, creamy curd.

Now, the real magic happens with the spices. Roasted cumin powder is a must-have for authentic chaat flavor. It adds this warm, earthy note that’s just incredible. You can buy it pre-roasted, or easily roast cumin seeds yourself in a dry pan until fragrant. Rock salt (kala namak) is another game-changer. It has a unique sulfurous flavor that elevates the chaat to another level.

Traditionally, chaat recipes vary a lot depending on the region. You might find versions with mango, papaya, or even chickpeas! Feel free to experiment with your favorite fruits – that’s the beauty of chaat.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! It’s seriously simple.

1. First, let’s prep the fruit. Peel, core, and chop the apple into bite-sized pieces. Do the same with the banana. Then, carefully remove the pomegranate arils – a little messy, but so worth it!
2. In a bowl, whisk the curd until it’s nice and smooth. No lumps allowed!
3. Add the sugar to the curd and mix well until it’s completely dissolved. Give it a taste – adjust the sweetness if needed.
4. Now for the spice! Stir in the roasted cumin powder, red chili powder, and rock salt. Mix everything together until it’s well combined.
5. Add the chopped apple, banana, and pomegranate arils to the yogurt mixture. Gently mix everything together, making sure the fruit is nicely coated.
6. Finally, garnish with a sprinkle of extra pomegranate arils or a few fresh mint leaves. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Expert Tips

• Don’t skip the roasting of the cumin seeds! It really makes a difference in the flavor.
• Taste as you go! Adjust the sugar and spices to your liking.
• For a smoother chaat, you can blend the yogurt with a little water or milk.

Variations

• Vegan Adaptation: Swap the curd for a plant-based yogurt – coconut yogurt or soy yogurt work really well.
• Spice Level: If you like things a little spicier, add a pinch more red chili powder or even a tiny bit of cayenne pepper. My friend, Priya, loves to add a dash of black pepper too!
• Festival Adaptations: This chaat is perfect for celebrations like Holi or Diwali. It’s a light and refreshing treat amidst all the rich festive food.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy it!

Serving Suggestions

This fruit chaat is best served chilled, but not too cold. It’s perfect as a midday snack, a light dessert, or even a side dish with your lunch. I love serving it in small bowls or glasses for a pretty presentation.

Storage Instructions

Honestly, this chaat is best enjoyed immediately. The fruit tends to get soggy if it sits for too long. However, if you absolutely have leftovers, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a few hours, but the texture won’t be the same.

FAQs

Is this chaat best served immediately?

Yes, absolutely! The fruit stays freshest and the flavors are at their best when served right away.

Can I use other fruits in this chaat?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with mango, papaya, grapes, oranges, or whatever fruits you love.

What is the significance of roasted cumin powder in chaat?

Roasted cumin powder adds a warm, earthy, and slightly smoky flavor that’s essential to the authentic chaat taste.

What is rock salt (kala namak) and why is it used?

Rock salt, or kala namak, is a volcanic rock salt with a distinctive sulfurous flavor. It adds a unique tanginess and depth of flavor to chaat.

Can I make this chaat ahead of time?

You can prep the fruit and spices ahead of time, but I recommend mixing everything together just before serving to prevent the fruit from getting soggy.