8 Indian Vegetables That Aren't Native To India

Zee Media Bureau
Oct 28, 2023

Cabbage

Cabbage, with its crunchy texture and distinct taste, arrived in Indian cuisine during the colonial period from Europe and Asia.

Okra (Lady Finger)

Okra, known as 'lady’s finger' in India, originated in Africa and arrived in India during the transatlantic slave trade.

Carrots

Originating from Central Asia, they came to India through the Silk Road trade and have now become essential in Indian cuisine.

Capsicum

Bell peppers, known as capsicum in Indian cuisine, were brought to India by the Portuguese.

Chillies

Chillies, renowned for their fiery taste, were brought to India by the Portuguese during the colonial era.

Cauliflower

Originally from the Mediterranean, cauliflower was introduced to India during the colonial era.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes, typically a key element in Indian cuisine, originated from Central and South America. The Portuguese introduced tomatoes to India.

Potatoes

Introduced by the Portuguese in the 17th century, potatoes, originally from the Andes region of South America, have become a vital ingredient in Indian cuisine.

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