Among variants of squash, chayote may be less well-known, especially in the West.
However, it’s pretty popular in the Latin and South East Asian countries.
This pear-shaped squash is surprisingly referred as a fruit, although many may address it as vegetable.
Either way, it’s either edible or raw, but most people have it cooked.
So, what does chayote squash taste like? If you want an instant answer, it’s mildly flavored, slightly similar to a cucumber.
Want to know more? Keep reading as we reveal the taste profile of this squash.
Additionally, we’ll guide you on how to cook and serve this fruit.
What is Chayote Squash?
Chayote, also known as choko or mirliton, belongs to Cucurbitaceae.
It’s a part of the gourd family cultivated first in Mesoamerica.
This vibrant green-colored squash is nutrient-rich and low in calories.
It may look like a pear but doesn’t share a similar taste profile.
The outer texture of this fruit has translucent spikes outside and is waxy.
Its flesh is crunchy and light but gets soft when cooked.
This squash also has a seed inside that most people remove while cooking.
It’s a popular ingredient in Asian and Latin American kitchens.
Moreover, it grows well in these regions, even without fertilization.
Hence, compared to other squash variants, chayote is widely popular in South America and Asia.
Like any other fruit, it’s a good source of Vitamin and rich in antioxidants.
Chayote is also a suitable replacement for starchy veggies if you cut carbs.
What Does Chayote Squash Taste Like?
Chayote is a mildly-flavored, clean and refreshing fruit.
The subtle taste of this squash makes it a versatile ingredient to include in any kind of recipe, including savory and sweet dishes.
Its texture is closely similar to water chestnuts, potatoes, and jicama.
In short, a cross of these vegetables.
The flesh of this squash is light green and juicy, like a cucumber.
Raw chayote is used in salad, where it’s thinly sliced.
Cooked ones have a soft texture with a slight note of sweet aftertaste.
This type of squash is widely available during winter.
It gives a summer flavor but is mainly consumed in the cold season.
As mentioned above, it has a seed inside, mostly removed while cooking.
It’s edible and has a crunchy texture.
Some roast this seed, which tastes like an almond or a lime bean.
Besides, chayote leaves are also consumed.
In fact, it’s a staple food in the North-Eastern part of India.
The leaves are boiled for five minutes with a tiny amount of salt.
It makes an excellent side dish.
Chayote’s skin is edible, too, but most people tend to peel it off due to its tough and chewy texture.
Overall, it’s light and versatile-tasting squash that is easy to cook.
It blends well with most ingredients allowing you to improvise the way you want.
It would be an excellent addition to those on a balanced diet.
The low-caloric and fibrous nature aids digestion and weight management and improves heart health.
How to Cook and Serve Chayote Squash?
The taste of chayote depends on how it’s cooked or prepared.
Various ways to prepare this squash include stuffing, roasting, stewing, grilling, and more.
In the Asian kitchen, this squash is stir-fried with other ingredients or added to stew dishes.
It’s also used in several Mexican recipes, from salads to pickles.
When it comes to its skin, it would be better to peel it off.
Now, here is a tip to get rid of the waxy feeling while removing the outer cover.
Fill a bowl with water and salt.
Cut both ends of the squash and let it immerse in the water for five to ten minutes.
It will help get rid of the slimy component and help you peel the skin leaving your hand clean and devoid of the waxy element.
These are some of the ways to make chayote squash yourself:
- Soup: Since this squash is mild-flavored, it blends with most ingredients. Whether savory or sweet soup, add this fruit to balance the dish’s taste. It doesn’t have an overpowering taste, making it a suitable food item for soup.
- Roasting: Another way to enjoy chayote is by roasting. Take a baking tray and add chopped squash, ground pepper, and oil. Put in the oven for fifteen to twenty minutes at 375 F. Add salt only after it’s out of the oven, as it may get salty. .
Conclusion
Give this healthy and nutritious squash if you haven’t tried it yet.
It’s readily available in grocery stores, or you may get it online, whichever is convenient.
It’s a versatile fruit that blends into any recipe.
Besides, it provides several health benefits.
Include this food item in your meals if you’re on a balanced diet.
Feel free to incorporate this squash with other ingredients.
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