Radish is basically a digestible root vegetable of the mustard family (Brassicaceae). Radishes have a pungent flavor along with a crunchy texture. This vegetable is grown and consumed all over the world. Especially in Asia, it owns huge fame. It also contains multiple nutritious properties which are beneficial for our health as well.
There are almost thirty-five verities of Radish. Most of them are planted in winter or early spring throughout the world. The varieties have different structures and colors. For instance, some of them are shaped like bulbs whereas others are like carrots. Winter varieties are much longer than others. The five most common types are-
1. Watermelon Radish
2. French Breakfast Radish
3. Daikon White Radish
4. Malaga Radish
5. White Hailstone Radish.
Each of these types owns a distinctive look and flavor. Daikon is known as MULA in Bangladesh which looks exactly like a carrot but in white color. This specific type is one of the famous winter vegetables in Bangladesh supermarkets. Being a cheaper vegetable, it’s available almost everywhere in this country.
Radishes are mostly eaten raw. They are often sliced into salads and sandwiches. However, in many countries, they are also consumed and cooked with various spices. The green leaves of radishes are not only edible but also delicious. The taste of radishes actually differs. You will find them crispy and peppery if you eat them raw. On the other hand, they taste soft like a potato when they are cooked. Many of you might hear about the famous Korean dish, namely KIMCHI which is basically cooked with fermented radishes, daikon to be more specific, Napa cabbages, carrots and different flavors of spices. Radishes are used in a bulk in this specific traditional Korean dish.
Radishes are high in various minerals and antioxidants which have many benefits for our health. Red radishes are rich in Vitamins E, A, C, and B6. Also, they are packed with antioxidants, fibres, zinc and so on which help to reduce risks for heart diseases. Radishes are also can be pretty good for the liver as well as the stomach as they act as a stronger detoxifier but if you take a large amount of radish, it may cause a problem in the digestion system. Other than these, they play a vital role in the generation of collagen which boosts our blood vessels. If you drink radish juice on a daily basis it will help you to get healthier skin as it contains vitamin C and zinc. Other than that, if anyone applies radish juice to hair, it will help to remove dandruff, prevent hair loss and it will also make the root strong.
Moreover, Radish is an easy-growing vegetable which is available almost everywhere in the world with a lot of health benefits. Radishes have an important role in agriculture in many countries along with Bangladesh. People love to serve this winter vegetable adding delicious dishes to their dining.