Complete List of Dry Fruits with Names, Benefits & Uses

What Are Dry Fruits?

Dry fruits are fruits from which the majority of water content has been removed — either through natural sun drying or mechanical dehydration. The result is a nutrient-dense, shelf-stable food that concentrates vitamins, minerals, fibre, and natural sugars. In India, dry fruits (meva) are consumed daily as snacks, used in cooking and desserts, and gifted during festivals.

At Phoran, we source premium quality dry fruits — fresh, clean, and packed with care.

Complete List of Dry Fruits with Names

1. Almonds (Badam)

Almonds are the most popular dry fruit in India. Rich in Vitamin E, healthy fats, protein, and magnesium, they support brain health, heart health, and skin glow. Soak 5–6 almonds overnight and eat on an empty stomach for maximum benefit.

2. Cashews (Kaju)

Cashews are creamy, buttery nuts rich in zinc, iron, and healthy monounsaturated fats. They support immunity, bone health, and heart health. Used extensively in Indian sweets, gravies, and as a snack.

3. Raisins (Kishmish)

Raisins are dried grapes packed with iron, potassium, and natural sugars. They provide quick energy, support digestion, and are a natural remedy for anaemia. Soak raisins overnight and drink the water for a powerful iron boost.

4. Walnuts (Akhrot)

Walnuts are the only nut with significant omega-3 fatty acids, making them exceptional for brain health, heart health, and reducing inflammation. Their wrinkled appearance resembles a brain — nature's hint at their benefits!

5. Pistachios (Pista)

Pistachios are rich in protein, fibre, and antioxidants. They support weight management, eye health (lutein and zeaxanthin), and heart health. One of the lowest-calorie nuts per serving.

6. Dates (Khajoor)

Dates are nature's energy bars — rich in natural sugars, fibre, potassium, and magnesium. They provide instant energy, support digestion, and are a staple during Ramadan fasting. Dates are also used in Indian mithai and energy balls.

7. Figs (Anjeer)

Dried figs are rich in calcium, fibre, and iron. They support bone health, digestion, and blood sugar regulation. Soak 2–3 figs overnight and eat in the morning for digestive benefits.

8. Apricots (Khumani / Jardalu)

Dried apricots are rich in beta-carotene (Vitamin A), iron, and potassium. They support eye health, skin health, and immunity. A popular ingredient in Kashmiri and Mughal cuisine.

9. Prunes (Dried Plums / Alubukhara)

Prunes are one of the best natural remedies for constipation, thanks to their high fibre and sorbitol content. They also support bone density and heart health.

10. Coconut (Dry Coconut / Copra)

Dry coconut (copra) is used extensively in South Indian and Maharashtrian cooking. Rich in healthy fats and medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), it supports brain function and energy.

11. Fox Nuts (Makhana / Phool Makhana)

Makhana are lotus seeds — a popular fasting food and healthy snack. Low in calories, high in protein and calcium, they are an excellent alternative to chips and fried snacks.

12. Peanuts (Moongphali)

Though technically a legume, peanuts are consumed as dry fruits in India. Rich in protein, healthy fats, and niacin, they are one of the most affordable and nutritious snacks available.

Dry Fruits Names in Hindi and English

Here's a quick reference list of dry fruits with names in both Hindi and English:

• Badam — Almond
• Kaju — Cashew
• Kishmish — Raisin
• Akhrot — Walnut
• Pista — Pistachio
• Khajoor — Date
• Anjeer — Fig
• Khumani / Jardalu — Apricot
• Alubukhara — Prune
• Nariyal (Sukha) — Dry Coconut
• Makhana — Fox Nut / Lotus Seed
• Moongphali — Peanut
• Chilgoza — Pine Nut
• Chironji — Charoli

Health Benefits of Eating Dry Fruits Daily

• Heart health: Almonds, walnuts, and pistachios reduce bad cholesterol and support cardiovascular function
• Brain health: Walnuts (omega-3), almonds (Vitamin E), and cashews (zinc) support cognitive function and memory
• Bone health: Figs, almonds, and pistachios are rich in calcium and magnesium for strong bones
• Energy: Dates, raisins, and cashews provide quick, sustained energy — ideal for fasting and pre-workout
• Immunity: Almonds (Vitamin E), cashews (zinc), and raisins (iron) collectively strengthen the immune system
• Skin & hair: Almonds and walnuts are rich in Vitamin E and omega-3 for glowing skin and strong hair
• Digestion: Figs, prunes, and raisins are high in fibre and support healthy digestion
• Weight management: Despite being calorie-dense, dry fruits provide satiety and reduce unhealthy snacking

Dry Fruits During Fasting

Dry fruits are one of the best foods to eat during Hindu fasts (vrat). They provide sustained energy, essential nutrients, and natural sugars without breaking the fast. Almonds, cashews, raisins, dates, and walnuts are all permitted during most fasts.

Read our complete guide: What to Eat During Fasting — Complete Vrat Food Guide

How to Eat Dry Fruits for Maximum Benefit

• Soaked: Soak almonds, raisins, and figs overnight — soaking improves digestibility and nutrient absorption
• Raw: Pistachios, cashews, and walnuts can be eaten raw as snacks
• In cooking: Add to kheer, halwa, biryani, and curries for richness and nutrition
• As garnish: Sprinkle over desserts, oatmeal, and salads
• In trail mix: Combine multiple dry fruits for a balanced, portable snack

How to Store Dry Fruits

• Store in airtight containers in a cool, dry place away from sunlight
• Refrigerate for longer shelf life — most dry fruits last 6–12 months when refrigerated
• Avoid moisture — even a small amount of water can cause mould
• Buy in small quantities to ensure freshness

Shop Premium Dry Fruits from Phoran

Phoran sources premium quality dry fruits — clean, fresh, and packed with care. Perfect for daily snacking, gifting, and festive occasions.

• Almond & Cashew Combo Pack (100g each) — premium badam and kaju, perfect for daily snacking
• Premium Dry Fruits Gift Pack — 5 Varieties — almonds, cashews, raisins, walnuts & pistachios (50g each) — ideal for gifting

Frequently Asked Questions About Dry Fruits

What are the names of all dry fruits?

Common dry fruits include almonds (badam), cashews (kaju), raisins (kishmish), walnuts (akhrot), pistachios (pista), dates (khajoor), figs (anjeer), apricots (khumani), prunes (alubukhara), fox nuts (makhana), and dry coconut (copra).

Which dry fruit is best for daily consumption?

Almonds are considered the best dry fruit for daily consumption due to their balanced nutritional profile — Vitamin E, healthy fats, protein, calcium, and magnesium. Soak 5–6 overnight and eat in the morning.

Are dry fruits good for weight loss?

Yes — in moderation. Dry fruits are calorie-dense but highly satiating. A small handful (30g) of mixed dry fruits as a snack reduces hunger and prevents overeating. Almonds and pistachios are particularly good for weight management.

Which dry fruits are best during fasting?

Almonds, cashews, raisins, dates, and walnuts are all excellent fasting foods. They provide sustained energy and essential nutrients without breaking the fast.