Whether you call it a computer mouse melon , a Mexican false gherkin , or by its popular U.S. name , cucamelon , this endearing fruit is the latest in a late burst of " rediscovered " produce devising inroads into American food culture . earlier hailing from Central America , where they ’ve been eatenfor centuries , cucamelons look like teensy right Citrullus vulgaris but have a unparalleled tone all their own .
So , where have cucamelons been all of this time ? And how can you utilize them in the kitchen ? In this clause , we ’ll reveal the history of the cucamelon and discuss how to intimately enjoy this Mexican miniature watermelon .
Are These Mini Cucumber Plants?
Full - grown cucamelons are not , it should be noted , a cross of Citrullus vulgaris andcucumbers , but rather in a genus of their own ( Melothria scabra ) . They ’re about the size of a ripe grape . The outside features a thin rind , tenderise enough that you could pop out the whole fruit in your mouth right from the vine . You ’ll straight off savor a Cucumis sativus flavor , one that ’s doused with a distinctive splatter of gamboge acerbity .
originate in Central America , particularly in Mexico and parts of Central America , this fruit has been cultivated for centuries . It is often bring up to as " Mexican morose gherkin " or " computer mouse melon " and has been a part of traditional diet in its native regions for generation . The cucamelon is part of the Cucurbitaceae family , which also includescucumbersand melon , but it stand out due to its unique sizing and appearance .
The Taste of the “Mexican Sour Cucumber”
Cucamelons are renowned for their distinctive flavour , which is a blending of a cucumber ’s freshness and a subtle hint of tartness , remindful of a lime . This unparalleled perceptiveness nominate them an exciting addition to various culinary instauration . These advanced fruits are typically the size of grapes and have a crunchy texture , adding a delightful crunch to dishes . Nutritionally , cucamelons are low in calorie but packed with vitamins and mineral , including vitamin C , potassium , and fibre , making them a healthy pick for nosh or add to salads .
Cucamelons are various . you’re able to switch them into a salad just as you would any other bite - sized vegetable , or simply nosh on them with salt . emphasize their tart taste bypickling them , or skewer them and use as a fancy cocktail garnish . Sautéing these Mexican sour cucumbers with olive oil color , salt , and capsicum pepper plant is another popular approximation . Regardless of preparation , there ’s no need to slice or unclothe them , because the rind is lovesome and mild .
From Seeds to Cucamelon Tubers
The rest of growing cucamelons , even in small garden spaces or containers , has impart to their increasing popularity among garden enthusiasts . Their resiliency and low-down maintenance make them a suited alternative for novice gardener . The cucamelon works produces both male flowers and female flower on the same plant .
grow cucamelon seeds is a rewarding and square summons , making these singular fruits accessible to gardener of all attainment level . To start , it ’s salutary to imbed seed indoors about 4 - 6 calendar week before the last expected Robert Frost appointment . Use small pots or seed tray fulfill with nutritious - rich , well draining grime .
Plant the seed about 1/4 inch cryptic and keep the soil moist , but not waterlogged . Cucamelon seed thrive in warm conditions , so keep a temperature around 70 - 75 ° F ( 21 - 24 ° blow ) will encourage sprouting , unremarkably within 7 - 14 daylight . Once the seedlings have develop several foliage and the out-of-door temperatures have consistently warm , they can be transplanted outside .
How to Grow Cucamelons
Cucamelon plants maturate well outside in full Sunday . These tiny watermelons require a trellis or bet to climb , as well as a bass watering once or twice per workweek . ensure to offer them well drain soil and light fertilisation .
They do best in temperature thatdon’t sinkhole below 50degrees Fahrenheit ( 10 degree Celsius ) . If your nighttime low drop below 50 , you may still be able to grow these vine so long as you choose for containers . If you know in a colder climate and opt to start your seeds indoors , transplant the seedlings only once freeze is no longer a concern .
The cucamelon vine measuring about 4 feet ( 1.2 meter ) long and bears grueling fruit throughout the summertime time of year . If you go in a warmer climate , the plant may have a chance to produce tubers , which youcan then replantthe follow twelvemonth – and the plants are known as better producers thesecond prison term around .
Bring Mouse Melons to Your Garden Space
The cucamelon ’s journey from a traditional fundamental American yield to a voguish culinary ingredient in kitchen worldwide is a testament to its unique charm and versatility . As more people chance upon this delicious yield , its popularity is sure to persist in growing , enrich culinary experiences with its distinctive flavor and nutritional welfare .
This article was updated in conjunction with AI technology , then fact - checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor .
