Unveiling kiwano: The strikingly exotic fruit in Canadian kitchens
Kiwano is a fruit that you simply cannot walk past without noticing. Its intensely orange spiky skin catches the eye, and its gelatinous pulp hides a wealth of taste and valuable properties. Is kiwano healthy? How do you eat it and what can it be used for in the kitchen?
At first glance, kiwano might arouse curiosity—it looks like a mix of cucumber, melon, and exotic squash. This unusual fruit, also known as horned cucumber, originates from Africa but is increasingly found on store shelves in Canada. What makes it worth your attention?
Kiwano properties
The exotic appearance of kiwano hides a true wealth of nutrients. This intensely orange fruit with a spiky skin is not only a curiosity on the store shelf but also a treasure trove of health. Is kiwano healthy? Definitely yes. Known also as horned cucumber, it is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals.
Its pulp contains large amounts of vitamin C, which supports immunity, and vitamin A, essential for healthy skin and vision. It is also rich in antioxidants, which help combat free radicals and slow down aging processes. Kiwano stands out for its high content of electrolytes—magnesium and potassium—making it often recommended for physically active individuals and those who want to maintain proper hydration.
In addition, kiwano has digestive aiding properties. Its gelatinous pulp is easy to digest and contains fibre, which positively affects intestinal function. Interestingly, horned cucumber is very low in calories, making it a great addition to the diet of those watching their figure.
How to eat kiwano?
Although kiwano’s appearance may arouse curiosity, its texture and taste can pleasantly surprise. How do you eat kiwano to enjoy its exotic character fully?
The simplest way is to cut the fruit in half and scoop out the gelatinous pulp with a spoon with a mildly citrusy, slightly tart flavour with hints of banana and cucumber. The seeds are edible, so removing them is unnecessary—they add a pleasant crunchiness to the kiwano.
For fans of more pronounced flavours, try kiwano with honey, natural yogurt, or a bit of lime juice to accentuate its taste. The pulp of this fruit also pairs well in cocktails and smoothies, adding a refreshing touch.
If you're looking for an interesting way to serve kiwano, you can use its skin as a natural bowl for desserts or fruit salads. This is not only practical but also extremely impressive!
The use of kiwano in the kitchen
Kiwano in the kitchen is a true culinary chameleon. Its refreshing, slightly citrus taste blends perfectly with both sweet and savoury dishes. Thanks to its gelatinous consistency, it's great as an ingredient in fruit cocktails, smoothies, and even ice cream.
Kiwano pulp can also serve as a base for sauces—simply combine it with olive oil, lemon juice, and a bit of honey to create an exotic salad dressing. It pairs well with seafood, delicate poultry meat, and cheeses, adding an unusual freshness to dishes.
Do you like to experiment in the kitchen? Try adding kiwano to salsa or guacamole—its tart taste perfectly contrasts with the creamy texture of avocado. It can also be used as a garnish for desserts and cocktails, serving the pulp in its original, spiky skin.
Regardless of how it is served, kiwano is a fruit that impresses with both its appearance and versatility. It's worth introducing it to your kitchen and discovering its exotic potential.
