The new king of summertime beverages is the snap melon

Step aside This summer, watermelon, also known as pottu vellari or snap melon, is the most sought-after thirst-quencher as the temperature soars to record highs.

Because of its unique flavor and subtle sweetness, the rich pulp of the native fruit is the primary factor that makes it a popular option for many.

The proprietors of the bakery shops and roadside stands swear they sell like hotcakes.

Snap melons are in more demand these days. We often run out of stock by the afternoon on most days due to the high demand. Even though customers keep coming in, we often can only provide buttermilk or watermelon juice,” says Asokan P K, who has been operating an improvised fruit stand in Kundanoor for the last 14 summers. In addition to selling an average of 60 kg of the fruit directly from his little roadside stand, he claims to sell more than 50 glasses of snap melon juice every day.

“These melons are sourced in large quantities from Kodungallur, where they are extensively grown.” The price is increasing and it is now being offered for Rs 60 per kilogram,” he continues.

The fruit’s popularity has increased dramatically in recent years due to the rise in summer temperatures. It’s being grown in many places today than only Kodungallur, the old centre.

Humidity is ideal for fruit growth, according to Abdul Saleem, proprietor of a wholesale store at the Nettoor International Fruits and Vegetables Market. Right now, he is getting the fruit from Nedumbasserry. “If it rains, the fruit would deteriorate soon. Farmers may suffer losses even from the summer rains. Fortunately, demand has increased recently. We can sell more than 15 tons a week,” he continues.

According to P S Sanumon, a farmer from Kanjikuzhy, snap melons have also recently been cultivated by small-time farmers and vegetable producers in Cherthala and Alappuzha. He just took home the best vegetable grower in Alappuzha award from the agricultural department.

The majority of the fruit produced is exported to Kochi and its surrounding areas, such as North Paravur, where almost every juice store sells fruit juice.

The primary growing season is already past, hence there is a significant shortage of the fruit. It is mostly grown in February and March. Right now, the harvest is in its third or fourth year. Additionally, only farmers who planted their seeds later will have access to the supply, he notes.

Tasty & nutritious

However, experts point out that eating pulpy summer fruit is really good for you since it regulates body temperature and has a lot more microfibers than watermelons. It serves as a great means of quenching thirst and provides quick body cooling. It is abundant in several vitamins and minerals, including beta-carotene. High levels of antioxidants may boost immunity and prevent cancer, according to nutritionist Anju Elsa Baby of Muvattupuzha General Hospital.

Prepare “Pottu vellari” juice on your own.

Using a ripe snap melon, remove the skin.

Eliminate the seeds and chop into little pieces.

 Add the necessary sugar and water.

In place of water, you may also add cold milk or coconut milk.

Cardamom will enhance the flavor.