Ladyfinger, also known as okra, is technically a fruit, not a vegetable.
Why is Ladyfinger a Fruit?
While often used in savory dishes like a vegetable, ladyfinger's botanical classification categorizes it as a fruit. This is due to the presence of seeds within the plant.
Here's why:
- Botanical Definition: A fruit develops from the flower of a plant and contains seeds. Vegetables, on the other hand, are typically the roots, stems, or leaves of a plant.
- Okra's Development: Okra plants have flowers, and the pod we eat develops from these flowers, containing the seeds needed for reproduction.
Ladyfinger: A Closer Look
Here is more detail about Ladyfinger/Okra:
- Botanical Family: Ladyfinger belongs to the mallow family, which includes plants like hibiscus and cotton.
- Culinary Use: Despite being a fruit, it's commonly used in cooking like vegetables and often paired with other vegetables in recipes.
- Nutritional Value: Okra is a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Summary
| Feature | Ladyfinger (Okra) |
|---|---|
| Botanical Category | Fruit |
| Culinary Use | Vegetable (often) |
| Seed Presence | Yes |
According to the provided reference, okra or lady's finger is a flowering plant in the mallow family. The presence of seeds inside it confirms it as a fruit and not a vegetable.
