Discover the Chayote
This humble, often underestimated fruit is actually an ancient and versatile superfood that should be a staple in your diet. Let's delve into the fascinating world of Sechium edule and discover why it's the perfect partner for your healthy lifestyle in Tenerife.
Chayote, Origin and Curiosities: A Mesoamerican and Global Legacy
The chayote, or chayota, is much more than a simple vegetable; it is a fragment of the culinary history of America
- Origin : The chayote, whose scientific name is Sechium edule, originated in Mesoamerica, specifically southern Mexico and Guatemala. It was an essential part of the pre-Columbian diet.
- The Name with History : The word chayote comes from the Nahuatl word chayotli, which means "spiny squash".
- Global Expansion : From Central America, its cultivation spread through the Antilles and South America between the 18th and 19th centuries, reaching Europe and the rest of the world.
- Local Names : Depending on the region, it is known as chayota (Venezuela and Spain), güisquil (Guatemala and El Salvador), chuchú (Brazil), papa del aire (Argentina) or cidra/guatila (Colombia).
- Versatile Uses : Not only is the fruit consumed. The tender tips of the plant, called tendrils, and its tuberous root, known as chayotextle or ichintal, are also edible. Furthermore, its flexible and resistant stems have been used for the artisanal production of baskets and hats.
Properties and Benefits of Chayote (Low in Calories and Rich in Nutrients!)
At Sanus Market, we promote products that are not only delicious, but also actively care for your body and the planet. Chayote fulfills this mission thanks to its dense nutritional profile:
- Hydration and lightness : It is composed of approximately 90% water and is extremely low in calories (approximately 25 kcal per 130 grams). It contains little fat, sodium, and sugar.
- Digestive Ally : It is an excellent source of soluble fiber, crucial for proper intestinal function, helping to combat constipation and maintain a healthy digestive system.
- Cardiovascular Health : Its high potassium content helps balance sodium levels in the bloodstream, making it effective in treating hypertension and maintaining stable blood pressure.
- Antioxidant Power : It is rich in antioxidants and vitamins such as Vitamin C , folic acid (B9) and Vitamin E, which help fight free radicals and protect cells, even providing protection and beauty to the skin.
- Essential Minerals : Contains important minerals such as magnesium, calcium , phosphorus, iron , and zinc. Its iron and vitamin B2 content helps prevent anemia.
- Medicinal Tradition : Historically, it has been attributed with antihypertensive, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and has been used for the treatment of kidney stones.
Varieties of chayote, Flavors and Culinary Uses
Chayote offers a wide range of culinary options thanks to its mild flavor and versatile texture, similar to that of a pear or zucchini.
Common Varieties:
Virens levis (Common) : Light green color, smooth texture, spineless. It is the most well-known variety and has a neutral flavor.
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Black Varieties (Dark Green) : Such as nigrum spinosum, which is distinguished by its large number of spines, or nigrum levis, which can be smooth and smaller.
White or Yellow Varieties : Such as albus minor (creamy white and slightly sweet) or albus levis (creamy yellow).
How to Enjoy Chayote in Your Kitchen?
Its versatility allows it to be used in two main ways:
- Raw : Its texture, similar to that of an apple, is perfect for fresh salads or simply marinated. You can cut it into thin strips and add salt and lemon for a healthy snack.
- Cooked : It is ideal for adding to soups and stews, or as a main ingredient in elaborate dishes.
Healthy Recipe Ideas to Inspire You :
- Fresh Chayote and Mango Salad: Cut the chayote into thin strips and mix it with mango, cilantro and lemon juice, adding a touch of organic olive oil.
- Stuffed Chayotes: Cook the fruit, remove the pulp and mix it with your favorite ingredients (such as shredded chicken, seasonal KM0 vegetables from Tenerife, or organic tofu) and bake until golden brown.
- Cream or Smoothie: Use it as a thickening base in vegetable creams or cleansing smoothies, taking advantage of its low calorie content.
Organic Farming: A Commitment to the Canary Islands
At Sanus Market , we deeply value the origin and freshness of what you consume. Although its origin is in Central America, chayote is cultivated in many regions of the world, including Spain, where it is also called Chinese potato.
By choosing organic products, like the ones we promote, you guarantee that they have been grown with respect for the environment, without the use of pesticides that compromise your health or the health of the soil.
Chayote Growing Conditions
The chayote vine is a climbing plant, so it needs support to grow. It requires humid conditions, soil rich in organic matter, and plenty of sunlight.
Production Cycle : The plant's production cycle can last, on average, three years, and in exceptional cases, up to 8-10 years. The fruit can reach commercial maturity approximately 25 days after flowering.
KM0 Commitment : Choosing chayote or other vegetables grown under organic principles and, if possible, locally sourced (KM0 in Tenerife), reinforces our commitment to island sustainability and supports local farmers who care for the land.
Join the Chayota Lifestyle!
Incorporating chayote into your diet is a small change with big benefits for your well-being and for the planet.
We invite you to try this nutritious treasure. At Sanus Market, we ensure you find the freshest, seasonal organic products in Tenerife, because your health and sustainability are our priority.
