Fruit Chaat

It's finally summer here in our hometown. It's a very welcome and refreshing change from the unexpected snow that continued into early May. My husband and I have finally come to appreciate our new backyard. The once empty and lonely plant life has finally bloomed and we are loving all the beautiful trees and flowers. For two years we lived in a condo, with a daughter and a dog. Seeing my family play and soak up the sunshine, in our backyard, has been one of this year's highlights.


One of my favorite late afternoon summer treats is a bowl of Fruit Chaat; Pakistani Fruit Salad. This Chaat combines the bounty of fresh fruit with sugar and spice. The flavors are incredible and will have anyone asking for more.



Fruit Chaat is considered street food and is sold at bazaars and marketplaces. If I close my eyes, I can still smell and hear the street vendors in Pakistan selling this sweet goodness by the bowl.

The great thing about making this dish, is that it is so versatile to anyone's tastes and preferences. If you don't like the fruit used in this recipe, you're more than welcome to try your own.


Fruit Chaat- Pakistani Fruit Salad
Serves: 3-4  Cook Time: 1 hr 15minutes

~2 Apples, washed & diced
~2 Nectarines, washed & diced
~2 Stalks worth of grapes (about 60)
~1 Banana, sliced
~1 1/2 Tb of Sugar
~1 Teaspoon Chaat Masala*
~Pinch of cayenne pepper ( 1/4 tsp for extra spicy)
~Half of a lemon

*Chaat Masala can be found at any local Indian/Pakistani store and even in large Asian markets. If not, you can order order online at Savory Spice Shop. I think they have a lovely version of this spice blend; seen here.


1.) Combine apples, nectarines, and grapes. Mix in banana, carefully.

2.) Sprinkle half of Sugar, chat masala and cayenne pepper onto fruit. Mix fruit, and then sprinkle the rest of spices on top. Slightly mix again.

3.) Squeeze some lemon juice on fruit, and then taste. Add more spices or lemon juice if needed. (Lemon juice not only adds a great refreshing flavor, but also keeps the fruit from browning)

4.) Store the Fruit Chaat, in a covered bowl, in the fridge for 1-2 hours. Serve immediately. This is best enjoyed the same day, but can be stored for 1-2 days in the fridge.


Take this dish to your next summer picnic!


Enjoy,

Aisha

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