May 26, 2025

BY: ET Online

8 foods you should always boil before eating

Potatoes

Raw potatoes contain solanine — a harmful toxin. Boiling not only makes them safe but also easier to digest.

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Kidney Beans (Rajma)

Raw or undercooked kidney beans have lectins that can cause food poisoning. Always soak and boil thoroughly.

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​Cauliflower

Boiling helps kill any hidden insects and reduces pesticide residue. Plus, it becomes softer and easier to cook.

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Spinach

Boiling reduces oxalates that interfere with calcium absorption. A quick boil boosts its nutritional availability.

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Soybeans

Raw soybeans are tough and contain enzyme inhibitors. Boiling removes anti-nutrients and improves digestibility.

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Bitter Gourd (Karela)

Boiling reduces its extreme bitterness and neutralizes compounds that might upset your stomach.

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Eggplant (Brinjal)

Contains solanine like potatoes. Boiling softens it and reduces bitterness and potential toxins.

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Colocasia (Arbi)

Raw arbi can irritate your throat due to calcium oxalate. Boiling makes it safe and digestible.

Image Source: iStock

Thanks For Reading!

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