Buchanania cochinchinensis
| Buchanania cochinchinensis | |
|---|---|
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| Charoli nuts | |
| Scientific classification | |
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| (unranked): | |
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| Species: | B. lanzan
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| Binomial name | |
| Buchanania lanzan | |
Buchanania lanzan is a tree which produces the seeds known as charoli (or chironji[1]). These almond-flavoured seeds are used as a cooking spice primarily in India.[2] Buchanania lanzan is cultivated across India, primarily in the northwest. After the hard shell is cracked, the stubby seed within is as soft as a pine nut.[2]
The charoli seed is lentil-sized, is slightly flattened and has an almond-like flavour. Though they can be eaten and used raw they are often toasted or roasted before use, as this intensifies the flavour.[1]
They are commonly used in sweets in India. However, they are also ground into powders for thickening savory sauces and flavoring batters, and stewed into rich, meaty kormas.[2]
Charoli seeds are used in the Ayurveda and Unani systems of medicine.[3]
References
- ^ a b "Celtnet Spice Guide Engtry for Chironji". Celtnet Spice Guide. August 11, 2012. Archived from the original on 27 July 2014. Retrieved October 15, 2012.
{{cite news}}: Cite has empty unknown parameter:|1=(help) - ^ a b c Bowen, Dana (April 28, 2004). "TEMPTATION; Charoli Nuts Flavor the Dishes, and Memories, of Indian Chefs". New York Times. Retrieved April 28, 2010.
- ^ Pankaj Oudhia, Robert E. Paull. Chironji Buchanania lanzan Spreng. Anacardiaceae p14- 15. Encyclopedia of Fruit and Nuts - 2008, J. Janick and R. E. Paull -editors, CABI, Wallingford, United Kingdom