In Goa, 'okambo' is nature’s gift with a zesty twist

THE MONKEY JACK

Artocarpus lacucha, also known as 'monkey jack' or 'monkey fruit', is a tropical evergreen tree, belonging to the Moraceae family. It thrives across the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia.

GOA’S TANGY TREASURE

Locally known as okambo, this sweet and sour fruit is not just a treat to the taste buds, but is also believed to hold medicinal value. In Goan kitchens, it’s widely used as a natural souring agent.

RUSTIC FLATBREADS OF SUMMER

Sometimes, the mushy pulp of okambo is carefully spread on traditional mats or leaves, left to dry in the sun, slowly transforming into yet another form of a local souring agent.

FROM FRUIT TO FLAVOUR BOMBS

The fruits and spikes of the male flower are used in curries, mouth-watering pickles and sauces.

TOTALLY TANGY

From tangy smoothies to the okam curry, reminiscent of Goa’s beloved kokum curry, this fruit adds a burst of zest to every dish it touches.

WOOD THAT HEALS

The stem of the tree is used for timber and firewood. In Thailand, its wood is used to make a traditional musical instrument.

NOURISHING LEAVES

The broad leaves serve as nourishing fodder, feeding cattle and sustaining lives in quiet rural corners.

ROOTED IN RITUALS

During the ritual of Katya Khamb in the Asali hamlet of Shristhal, Canacona, a pole made from the okam tree is raised and adorned with flowers in front of the temple of Adinath Adipurush Karepaik.

NEXT: Jackpot of sweetness: Goa's summer treasure