For those of you who don’t live in California, Florida, Louisiana, or Latin America, you may not be familiar with a merliton. Perhaps the names chayote, vegetable pear, mango squash, cho-cho, xuxu or christophene will ring a bell. They all refer to this versatile pumpkin-like vegetable that is grown all over the world and goes by various names. Historically, it was a staple food of the Aztecs and Mayans.
What exactly is a Merliton?
A merilton is an edible plant in the Curcurbitaceae (pumpkin) family along with melons, cucumbers, and squash. It is grown on a vine. It looks like a large, light green pear, similar in color to a Granny Smith apple. The interior is a lighter color with a large, smooth seed.
A merliton can be arranged in as many ways as a sweet potato. It can be stuffed, fried, baked, pureed, creamed, pickled, and buttered. The filling makes a great custard pie. It can be eaten raw and served cold in salads. It makes a great tasting soup and the merliton fritters are a popular substitute for pancakes.
Many say that merlitons can be substituted for any recipe that calls for pumpkin. But I would add, for any recipe that calls for sweet potatoes as well.
Merlitons are a low calorie vegetable, only 40 calories per cup. They are also low in sodium and a good source of fiber. They are rich in amino acids and vitamin C.
How does a Merliton taste?
Tastes good! A merliton tastes similar to summer squash, but a bit sweeter. The outer texture is a cross between a potato and a cucumber. The inside is more like an eggplant. I prefer it cooked, but many eat it raw or pickled.
A great low calorie snack is to cut into strips and boil. Marinate with low-fat salad dressing in the refrigerator. Strips are a great snack when looking for something quick to eat.
Where do I buy one and why are Merlitons so good?
Although merlitons were native to Mexica and Central America, they are now cultivated throughout the world. They can be found in ethnic markets, including Asian, Indian, Filipino, Caribbean, and Latin American. They can be found at your local “super” supermarket, but they are most likely not called a merliton.
Merlitons are great because they taste great and can be prepared in many different ways. But best of all, most people have never heard of them. I live in Texas and for me they are my secret weapons. When I want to surprise my friends with my culinary prowess, I cook a dish with merlitons. My Cajun Shrimp Merliton Chowder has my neighbors begging for more!