Chayote Squash, popularly known as Chow-Chow in India is a vegetable belonging to the gourd family, Cucurbitaceae. The thin-skinned, big pear-shaped vegetable that goes with the botanical name Sechium edule, also referred to as mirliton, pipinola, choko, originates from both Mexico and Guatemala. Though it is widely referred as a fruit, it in fact is an edible vegetable and historians believe that it was one among the several vegetables that was introduced to the Old World during the Columbian exchange.
Chayote is a Spanish word, and it is known as Choko in Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore. While it is referred as Christophene in United Kingdom and Ireland, it is called Siamese Gourd in Indonesia and Malaysia. Whatever the name, there is no denying that this nutritious vegetable with super soft, succulent flesh is delectable to taste. It is one of the staple ingredients in Latin American nations and is consumed both in cooked and raw forms. While uncooked chayote is an integral part of salads or salsas in these countries, in India, it is consumed as a curry, dal or kootu.
Also Read: 5 Dals That Must Be Part Of Your Daily Diet
Contrary to the popular opinion that this fruit/veggie is the only edible part that grows on this climbing plant, the roots, stems, seeds and leaves can also be added to the daily diet. The vine that grows on the ground, can reach up to 12 meters sporting heart-shaped leaves which are 10-25 cm wide with tendrils on the stem. The shoots, leaves, and seeds add mild flavor but great taste to the salads and stir-fries.
Culinary Usages of Chayote:
Chayote is perhaps one of the few vegetables where its usage in various culinary cultures is very vast and extensive. It is quite interesting to note that Chow-Chow is cooked differently in every other country, often, depending on their traditional food habits.
Europe:
In European countries, this bland veggie is cooked alongside beans, potatoes, corn and is served as an accompaniment to the fish dishes.
North America:
In the US, it is touted as second popular dish to be relished on holidays, especially in the states like Louisiana.
Brazil:
Brazilians like their Chayote either breaded or fried and add it generously to their stews, salads and soups.
Asia:
Korea:
In Korea, Chayote is served either pickled or in a marinated form, often as a side dish.
China:
Chinese refer to Chayote as Buddha’s Palm and is a staple in stir-fried dishes.
Thai:
Thai cuisine refers to the plant as Sayognte, meaning Miao Melon, as it grows mainly on the hilly regions of northern Thailand. The young shoots, and tender leaves are added to soups and stir-fries.
India:
We Indians too love Chayote. Bengalis ensure to eat it in rainy season for fighting infections, thanks to its ample concentration of vitamin C. The young, tender leaves and branches are added to Saag, Shutko. It is referred as Chow-Chow or Maerakkai in Tamil Nadu and is a staple in sambar, poriyal, kootu, dal, or even chutney.
It is called Seema Badanekaayi in Karnataka and Seema Vankaaya or Bengaluru Vankaaya in Telugu and is served as a curry.
(Source: Wikipedia)
Health Benefits of Chayote Squash:
A humble vegetable, Chayote comes with an array of nutritional components. This tender vegetable with deep ridges is not only low on calories but also offers ample amounts of potassium, magnesium, manganese, copper, Vitamins C, K, B6, B9 or folate, Calcium, Iron besides a whopping 2.8 grams of dietary fiber and contains absolutely no fat, sodium making it an ideal vegetable for those on weight loss journey.
Also Read: Calcium: Functions, Food Sources, Supplements, Deficiencies And Toxicity
Protects Heart:
Rich in phytochemicals, Chayote plays a major role in improving blood flow, thus regulating high blood pressure. The presence of myricetin, an antioxidant not only brings down the levels of cholesterol but also fights against inflammation, thus preventing chronic cardiovascular diseases. Add this vegetable to your daily diet to protect the health of your most vital organ, the heart.
Improves Liver Function:
A fatty liver is a dangerous condition, and it can happen in non-alcoholics as well. Various studies signal that regular intake of this nutritious vegetable considerably brings down the fatty deposits in the liver and also reduces the levels of bad cholesterol of LDL. Regular intake of Chayote triggers metabolic activity and improves the liver’s ability to process fats.
Also Read: Liver Function Tests: Know The Types, How It Is Done And What To Expect
Regulates Blood Sugar:
Low on carbs and loaded with dietary fiber, Chayote should be part of a diabetic’s diet plan. Chayote not only makes you feel satiated for longer hours, but the presence of fiber prevents the faster absorption of carbohydrates thus regulating blood sugar levels. Studies reveal that the presence of certain chemical compounds in Chayote improves insulin sensitivity, and aids in better control of blood sugar levels in those suffering from type 2 diabetes.
Supports Healthy Pregnancy:
Folate is a primary nutrient any pregnant woman would require in ample amounts for delivering a healthy baby. Also referred to as Vitamin B9, folate is in fact recommended to every woman trying to get pregnant as it plays a crucial role in the healthy development of fetal brain, spinal cord, and proper growth of the baby. Chayote Squash comes with a whopping amount of 40% of the daily recommended intake of folate for a pregnant woman. All you need is one Chayote daily to meet most of your folate requirements.
Rich In Antioxidants:
Chayote Squash is loaded with a wide range of antioxidants including quercetin, myricetin, kaempferol, and morin which fight against various chronic conditions including diabetes, cancer, and inflammation. Thanks to the impressive presence of Vitamin C, this super vegetable is your must-have for fighting various bacterial and viral infections that are quite common in rainy and winter seasons.
Also Read: 5 Essential Antioxidants To Add To Regular Diet For Enhanced Overall Health
Prevents Cancer:
Chayote, being rich in antioxidants fights against free radicals thus slowing down the progression of cancer cells, especially in those suffering from leukaemia and cervical cancer. The presence of flavonoids in Chayote, not only has anti-cancer activity but restricts the growth of cancer cells and prevents metastasis. These compounds reportedly eliminate oxidant molecules which are responsible for the faster growth of tumors and for these reasons, it is strongly recommended in the diet chart of cancer patients.
Slows Down Aging:
This super vegetable can effectively reduce oxidative stress, which may harm the body cells, thus making the skin look dull and pale. Eating Chayote brings down the signs of metabolic syndrome, thus protecting the body from cell damage, making the skin glow from within.
Also Read: 5 Ways To Build Basic Beauty Regimen For Aging Skin
Good For The Gut:
A great digestive function means a healthy you and it is responsible for optimum absorption of nutrients. Eating Chayote boosts digestive health, and ensures regular detoxification. An ample presence of flavonoids, and plant compounds in Chayote prevents constipation, regulates bowel movement, and maintains the growth of healthy gut bacteria thus optimizing various functions of the digestive tract.
Aids In Weight Loss:
Chayote is your must-have vegetable if you are on a strict diet regimen, hoping to shed those extra kilos. Quite low on calories, it is extremely beneficial for Weight Watchers and those practicing calorie-deficit diet plans. Being rich in dietary fibre it helps in resisting mid-day hunger pangs and in suppressing appetite.
Triggers Cognitive Function:
Being rich in antioxidants, flavonoids, and other plant compounds Chayote is extremely beneficial in those suffering from cognitive decline. Various studies prove that this vegetable is very effective in bringing down the durations between the episodes of convulsions, improves mood disorders, and prevents depression. It is also widely recommended for improving motor coordination in those suffering from Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s.
How To Prepare Chayote?
Botanically speaking, Chayote is a fruit but is cooked as a vegetable. It is very easy to cook this delicious vegetable. Wash the Chayote properly and peel the skin. Cut it into two halves, and remove seeds.
Dice it into small cubes or grate it depending on the dish.
Chayote can be consumed raw just like cucumber
Cut into fine pieces and add to your salads
It goes well with fries, add it to the dal and cook
Fry it, sprinkle some salt, and serve it as an appetizer
Chayote Recipes:
Chayote is available around the year in India, making it a staple in our culinary journey. Check out these very easy, amazingly tasty and nutritious dishes that can be made from Chayote.
Spicy Chayote Roast:
Ingredients:
3 medium-sized chayote squash, peeled and diced into small cubes
½ tsp mustard seeds
½ tsp urad dal
½ tsp chana dal split
1 tsp jeera or cumin
1 onion, chopped finely
2 garlic cloves, small
½ tsp chilli powder
½ tsp turmeric powder
Salt to taste
Oil for frying
Method:
In a pan, add oil. Let it heat and add mustard seeds, urad dal, and chana dal. Fry till golden brown
Add onions, and garlic and fry till it turns translucent
Add diced Chayote pieces, turmeric powder, salt, and chili powder. Stir well. Cover the pan with a lid and let it cook on low flame for 5 minutes
Stir it, make sure the curry is cooked tender
Serve hot with rice or roti
Nutritional Content:
Chow Chow is rich in vitamin C, and folate and provides copious amounts of antioxidants, plant compounds crucial for regulating various bodily functions. Whole spices like mustard, urad, and cumin regulate digestion, trigger appetite. Onions are rich in antioxidants that fight against inflammation, bring down the levels of cholesterol and high blood pressure. Garlic is loaded with manganese, selenium and vitamin C which keep your heart healthy and improve cognitive functions. Adding turmeric to this dish brings in antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antiviral properties making it an ideal dish to consume in the rainy season.
Chayote, Honey Salad:
Ingredients:
1 medium size Chayote, sliced thin
1/2 avocado pulp
1 tsp organic honey
1 tsp extra virgin olive oil
1 tsp fresh lemon juice
½ tsp fresh pepper powder
Fistful of freshly chopped cilantro
Walnuts, chopped roughly
Salt to taste
Method:
In a bowl, mix olive oil, honey, pepper, salt and lemon juice. Stir it well. The dressing is ready
In another bowl, add thinly sliced Chayote, avocado pulp, cilantro, and walnuts. Give it a stir
Add salad dressing to the mix of Chayote and avocado. Mix well
Serve cold
Nutritional Content:
Chayote can be consumed raw just like cucumber and it meets your daily requirement of Vitamin C, boosts immunity and the various plant compounds keep the heart healthy. Avocado is your must-have if you are on a weight loss journey, helps bring in inflammation. Organic honey is a rich source of antioxidants, loaded with antibacterial and antifungal properties that can heal the body from within. Pepper is low on calories and provides you with vitamins A, C, potassium, and folic acid which are responsible for regulating various bodily functions. Olive oil keeps the heart healthy and reduces inflammation while lemon juice triggers immunity. Walnuts are known for their ability to improve the mood and functioning of the brain.
Side Effects of Chayote:
There are no known side effects of consuming Chayote or Chow-Chow as a part of a regular diet. Make sure to clean the vegetable properly before consuming it in the raw or cooked form.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Chayote Called In India?
In India, chayote is commonly known as chow-chow vegetable and is frequently used in regional dishes.
Why Is Chayote Squash Good For You?
Chayote is low in calories and rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It supports digestion and heart health.
What Is The Best Way To Eat Chayote Squash?
Chayote can be eaten in salads, steamed, or cooked in stir-fries, soups, or curries.
What Is The English Name For Chayote Squash?
The English name for chayote squash is chayote. It is also called mirliton and vegetable pear
Can I Eat Chayote Every Day?
Yes, being a low-calorie food, it is a healthy choice and you can eat chayote every day as part of a balanced diet.
Is Chayote Good For Kidney?
Chayote is generally considered safe for kidney health and can be included in a kidney-friendly diet. It’s low in potassium compared to other vegetables.
Can I Eat Raw Chayote?
Yes, raw chayote can be eaten. Due to its a crisp texture, it is often used in salads for added crunch.
Is Chayote High In Sugar?
Chayote is low in sugar and contains only about one gram of sugar per hundred grams. It can be consumed by people who are watching their sugar
Is Chayote High In Uric Acid?
Chayote is low in purines, which makes it a good option for individuals concerned about uric acid levels and is safe for gout sufferers.
Can I Eat Chayote Skin?
Yes, you can eat the skin of chayote, which is nutritious. Just be sure to wash it thoroughly before consumption.
What Does Chayote Taste Like?
Chayote has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a crisp texture like cucumber or zucchini, and it can absorb the flavours when used in cooking.
Should Chayote Be Peeled?
Peeling chayote is a choice. The skin is edible but may be slightly tougher so it can be peeled to make it smoother.
How To Know If Chayote Is Ripe?
Ripe chayote should be firm and free of blemishes, with a vibrant green colour. When gently squeezed, it should yield slightly to pressure.
Can You Be Allergic To Chayote?
While rare, some people may have an allergic reaction to chayote and can have episodes of gastrointestinal discomfort
When Should I Eat Chayote?
A versatile vegetable for any meal, chayote can be enjoyed year-round, but the season of this veggie is during warmer months.
Is Chow-Chow And Chayote the Same?
Yes, chow-chow and chayote are the same vegetable. Chow-chow is a frequently used name for chayote in the Indian language.
Conclusion:
Chayote or Chow Chow is technically a fruit but cooked as a vegetable. Originating from Mexico and Guatemala, Chayote which looks like a big pear goes with the botanical name Sechium edule, and is also referred to as mirliton, pipinola, or choko. Loaded with Vitamin C, potassium, magnesium, manganese, copper, B9 or folate, calcium, and iron besides impressive amounts of dietary fibre, Chayote helps in bringing down high blood pressure, improving liver function, preventing cancer, and inflammation, reducing signs of aging. It is an ideal food choice for those on a weight loss diet plan as it keeps you satiated for longer hours. There are any known side effects of consuming this super vegetable.
(This article is reviewed by Soumita Basu, Ayurveda Pharma Expert)
Author Profile, Kalyani Krishna
Despite her legal background, Kalyani Krishna's true passion lies in writing. With over 15 years of experience in mainstream media, she understands the importance of crafting articles with unique selling points to trend on top searches. While her expertise spans various industries, Kalyani is particularly interested in the healthcare sector. She ensures her content is meticulously researched, factual, and grammatically error-free.
References
Studies on the Soil Application of Micronutrients and Its Influence on Growth, Yield and Quality of Chow Chow
Institute of Agriculture, TNAU, Kumulur, Trichy-621712, India.
https://journalijpss.com/index.php/IJPSS/article/view/3013
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/377115795_Advances_in_Production_Technology_of_chow_chow
