Waxgourd, also known as Chinese Preserving Melon, is a popular ingredient in Asian Cuisine. A single serving of 1 lb of waxgourd that is salted, drained, cooked and boiled is about 64 Calories. It is a low-calorie and nutrient-dense fruit vegetable that is perfect for those who want to maintain a healthy weight.
Apart from its low-calorie content, Waxgourd is a great source of vitamins and minerals. It contains vitamin C, vitamin B, iron, and potassium in significant amounts. It also has a high water content, which makes it an ideal food for hydration.
In this article, we'll examine the various Nutritional benefits of Waxgourd, its traditional use in medicine, how to select and store it, and some delicious Recipes you can try at home.
Overview of Waxgourd
Waxgourd is a fruit vegetable that is commonly grown in Asia, particularly in China and India. It is a winter melon that is harvested in the late summer and early autumn. It has a hard, greenish-white skin and a soft, white flesh that is bland in taste but has a refreshing and cooling effect on the body. Waxgourd is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine for its diuretic and cooling properties. It is believed to help lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and promote weight loss. It is also used to treat digestive disorders and improve skin health. In addition to its medicinal properties, waxgourd is a versatile and healthy ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to stir-fries and salads.
Nutritional Value of Waxgourd
Waxgourd is a nutrient-dense fruit vegetable that is low in Calories and high in vitamins and minerals. A 1-cup serving of sliced, raw waxgourd (about 214 grams) contains approximately: - 26 calories - 5.8 grams of carbohydrates, including 4.4 grams of sugar, and 1.4 grams of fiber
Calories in Waxgourd
As mentioned earlier, a one-pound serving of Waxgourd contains about 64 Calories. This is relatively low compared to other fruits and vegetables, making it an excellent food choice for those who want to maintain a healthy weight.
Waxgourd in Traditional Medicine
Waxgourd has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. It is believed to have a range of health benefits, including promoting diuresis, reducing inflammation, and improving digestion. It is also thought to have a cooling effect on the body, making it an ideal food for those who live in hot and humid climates.
How to Select Waxgourd
When selecting Waxgourd, choose fruits that are firm, heavy, and free of cracks and blemishes. The skin should be greenish-white and smooth. A mature waxgourd can weigh anywhere from 2-30 pounds, so be sure to pick a size that is suitable for your needs.
How to Store Waxgourd
Waxgourd can be stored at room temperature for up to one month if kept in a cool, dry place. If you have cut the waxgourd, wrap the sliced portion in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to five days. You can also freeze waxgourd for up to six months.
Cooking with Waxgourd
Waxgourd is a versatile vegetable that can be used in a wide variety of dishes. It has a mild flavor that complements both sweet and savory ingredients. Some popular ways to cook waxgourd include: - Soup: Waxgourd makes an excellent addition to soups and stews. Its mild flavor and high water content make it ideal for adding volume and texture to broths and stocks. - Stir-fry: Waxgourd can be sliced and stir-fried with other vegetables and protein sources. It has a slight crunch when cooked and absorbs sauces well.
Waxgourd in Asian Cuisine
Waxgourd is a staple ingredient in many Asian Cuisines, particularly Chinese and Indian. It is a popular ingredient in soups, stews, and curries, and is often used in vegetarian and vegan dishes. Some popular waxgourd dishes include: - Winter melon soup: A classic Chinese soup made with pork ribs, winter melon, and goji berries. - Waxgourd halwa: An Indian dessert made with grated waxgourd, milk, sugar, and cardamom.
Preparing Waxgourd
To prepare Waxgourd, start by washing it thoroughly under running water. Then, cut it in half and use a spoon to scrape out the seeds and pulp. You can then slice or dice the waxgourd as desired. If you are using waxgourd in a recipe that calls for it to be peeled, use a sharp vegetable peeler to remove the skin.
Waxgourd Recipes
Here are two delicious Waxgourd Recipes you can try at home: - Waxgourd and pork rib soup: A hearty and comforting Chinese soup made with pork ribs, waxgourd, and goji berries. - Fried rice with waxgourd: A simple and tasty rice dish made with cooked rice, diced waxgourd, and scrambled eggs.
Waxgourd is a low-calorie and nutrient-dense fruit vegetable that is perfect for those who want to maintain a healthy weight.
FAQs About Waxgourd (Chinese Preserving Melon)
1. What is Waxgourd (Chinese Preserving Melon)?
Waxgourd, also known as Chinese Preserving Melon, is a large, oblong-shaped fruit with a waxy greenish-white outer layer. It is commonly used in Asian Cuisine, particularly in Chinese and Indian Cooking.
2. What are the health benefits of Waxgourd (Chinese Preserving Melon)?
Waxgourd is low in Calories and high in fiber, making it a great addition to any healthy diet. It is also rich in potassium and Vitamin C.
3. How is Waxgourd (Chinese Preserving Melon) typically prepared?
Waxgourd can be cooked in a variety of ways, including simmering, boiling, or stir-frying. It can be used in soups, stews, and curries. Additionally, it is often paired with sugar to make a sweet dessert.
4. How should Waxgourd (Chinese Preserving Melon) be stored?
Waxgourd should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Once cut, it should be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerated.
5. Can Waxgourd (Chinese Preserving Melon) be eaten raw?
While Waxgourd can technically be eaten raw, it is most commonly cooked before consumption. Raw Waxgourd has a very mild flavor and can be somewhat tough and fibrous.