You say Merliton, I say Mirliton – A Merliton by any other name tastes just as sweet!
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 ring a bell. They all refer to this versatile pumpkin-like vegetable that is grown around the world and goes by various names. Historically, it was a main 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 squashes. 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 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 exterior texture is a cross between a potato and a cucumber. The interior 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 you’re looking for a quick bite 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 merliton.
Merlitons are great because they taste great and can be prepared in so 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 Merliton Shrimp Chowder has my neighbors begging for more!