Peculiar Produce
EXPLORING OUR PLANET’S BEST EXOTIC FRUIT AND VEG
THE WORLD’S MOST PECULIAR produce
KIWANO
What is it?
The kiwano goes by several aliases, including ‘African horned cucumber’, ‘horned melon’, and ‘jelly melon’. This plant is an annual vine; it’s part of the cucumber and melon family, and is easily recognised by its spiky exterior.
Where does it come from?
It’s native to Sub-Saharan Africa, but is also grown in the US, Portugal, Italy, Germany, Chile, Australia and New Zealand.
Does it have any health benefits?
It contains vitamin C, folate and vitamin A, and boasts particularly high levels of potassium, calcium and magnesium.
What does it taste like?
The vibrant green seeds are similar in appearance to passionfruit, but comparable in taste to passionfruit combined with banana. It is also likened to bananas, cucumbers and limes. Kiwanos can be eaten by cutting the fruit in half and eating the seeds and the flesh surrounding them. You can add kiwano seeds to cocktails, include them in a salsa, or even garnish your favourite plant-based meat alternative with them, for an added fresh flavour.