Chayote

The Chayote(Sechium edulce) is sold in tray format of 1 unit with an approximate weight of 0.200 Kg and 0.300 Kg. It is a very tasty vegetable, and it is also used as a decorative element to decorate centerpieces.

In Mexico, Central and South America the Chayote is an essential vegetable that is eaten a lot in homemade stews, creams and also eaten cooked with salt. It is very similar to zucchini, the Chayote is a fruit of soft and sophisticated flavor that is ready in 30 minutes of cooking.

what is Chayote?

Chayote (Sechium edulce) is a fruit of the Cucurbitaceae family, like melon, cucumber and other fruits from temperate zones. Although it may have originated in some Central American countries, there is no evidence that the plant was found in the wild in any region of the Americas.

The plant is a perennial climber with aristate and glabrous stems that reach 15 cm long and very branched. Long and highly branched. The fruit has a dark green to light green color. The tuberous roots are very appreciated as food for domestic use.

Origin of the chayote

The chayote is a plant of neotropical origin, considered native to Mexico and Guatemala, where more than 10 different species have been identified. Its name may derive from the Nahuatl huizt ayotl, meaning "pumpkin with thorns".

It is believed that it was already consumed by pre-Columbian societies, and that Spanish colonizers played a key role in its spread to other Latin American countries. Traditionally, chayote was attributed medicinal properties, especially as a hypotensive and diuretic, effects that have been confirmed by scientific studies. Mexico is one of the main countries in both production and consumption, although the chayote also occupies a prominent place in the cuisine of Brazil and much of Latin America.

Nutritional values of chayote

Chayote does not contain sugars and is a fruit that can be consumed daily. The nutritional values per 100 grams are as follows:

• Protein: 0.82 g
• Fat: 0.13 g
• Energy: 19 kcal
• Fiber: 1,7 g
• Carbohydrates: 4,51 g
• Of which Sugars: 1,66 g
• Vitamin C: 7,7 mg / 9 % CDR
• Vitamin K: 4,1 mcg / 5,6 % CDR

Properties of chayote

• It is a food that has a low amount of calories, so it can be consumed in quantity without worrying about gaining weight.
• It has a lot of fiber, which helps the intestine to go without problems to the bathroom during the day.
• It improves health due to its high water content, thus avoiding fluid retention in the body.
• It contains a large amount of vitamins that favor the body and prevent diseases.
• Chayote produces amino acids, which are very essential for the correct development of the organism and the body does not produce them.

Types of chayote

Among the varieties of Chayote we have a very small yellow one that is produced in Costa Rica and is known as Cocoro.
In Central American countries the variety of yellowish color and white inside is known as Perulero. Unlike the others, this one is softer and juicier.

Where to buy chayote in Madrid

If you are looking for chayotes in Madrid, in Frutas Charito you can find the best kind of chayote. We are a traditional greengrocer, with online sales in Madrid. Buy your chayotes and we will deliver them to your home.

Recipes with chayote

An easy and refreshing way to incorporate chayote in our diet is to prepare it in juice in the morning. Combined with lemon or celery, chayote juice is an excellent option to take advantage of its diuretic and antioxidant properties, which can help in weight loss.

To enjoy its benefits to the fullest, just include it regularly in your diet, either in creams, stews or as a light side dish.

The most popular recipes with chayote are the Mexican salad with chayote, green chili, tomato, garlic and onion.

Similarly, chayote cream is a classic with coconut cream and golden chayote seeds as a finishing touch. With cream or milk, grated cheese and a touch of nutmeg, chayote au gratin becomes an excellent alternative to potato.

You can also prepare chayote stuffed with baked chicken meat.

And its great versatility also makes it ideal for preparing savory pies or tortillas.