Bat fruitcake , also known as water star-thistle nuts , are fascinating and unique eatable seed pods cultivate in eastern Asia , particularly in China . These pods get along from a works called Trapa bicornis , which belongs to the weewee chestnut tree family . The name “ bat nut ” is derived from the appearance of the fruit pod , which have two down curving horns that resemble a bat ’s annex . The form of the fuel pod is often compare to a bull ’s head or a flying squash racquet , giving hike to other common names such as devil ’s pod , Scots heather , and horn nut .
The bat nut works is an aquatic perennial , typically found in pool , marshes , and easy - moving river . It thrives in warm climates and requires ample sunlight and nutrient - rich grime to raise . The plant itself has long , slender staunch with be adrift leave that form rosettes on the water ’s surface . Its flowers are belittled and invisible , but they eventually give style to the intriguing fruit pod that appropriate the tending of many .
The yield pods of the squash racket nut plant are the main attraction . They are about the size of a walnut tree and have a hard , woody exterior . The most distinguishing feature of these fuel pod is the presence of two curved automobile horn that prolong downwards . The horn give the pod a distinct build and create a visual resemblance to a chiropteran or a bull ’s straits .
When it come to taste , bat addict have a balmy , nutty relish that is quite pleasant . The seeds inside the pods are edible and are often waste either raw or fix . They can be boiled , roasted , or added to various dishes , including soup , flurry - Roger Fry , and salads . The texture of the seeded player is crunchy and somewhat chewy , arrive at them a delightful addition to culinary instauration .
Bat en have been a part of Asian culinary art for centuries , and they are extremely valued for their nutritional benefits . They are a fertile source of vitamins , minerals , and dietetical fibre . Additionally , they contain antioxidant that serve to protect the body against oxidative stress and push overall well - being .
naturalize squash racquet nuts can be a rewarding experience for gardening partizan . To grow these unique plant , it is all-important to leave them with the right conditions . They prefer to originate in shallow H2O , so a pond or a container with ample water is idealistic . The piddle should be still or have a blue flow , as strong currents can damage the plant . Adding constitutional matter to the territory and providing regular fertilization can help promote healthy growth .
When harvesting bat nuts , it is important to waitress until the fruit pods turn dark-brown and become fully mature . At this stage , the pod can be lightly plucked from the works and carefully opened to reveal the edible seeds . It is crucial to cover the pods with fear as they have sharp spine that can cause injury .
Bat nuts are challenging and visually striking seed pod that come from the Trapa bicornis flora . With their distinctive human body resemble a at-bat or a bull ’s head , these edible seeds have become a pop fixings in Asian cuisine . Whether consumed raw or cooked , bat nuts propose a mild , nutty flavor and a substantial crunch . Cultivating these plants can provide a alone and rewarding gardening experience while also adding an unusual and delicious fixings to your culinary repertoire .
Caroline Bates
