Cucamelons

Cucamelons are one of our favourite summer fruits! The size of a grape, about 1 to 2 centimetres, and resembling a mini watermelon, these small fruits taste like cucumber with a hint of acidity. This hybrid, native to Mexico and Central America, is also known as Mexican sour cucumber, Mexican watermelon, or pepquinos. In terms of flavour, cucamelons have a unique profile that combines the spiciness of a cucumber with a citrusy hint and some acidity, making them a refreshing snack and a versatile ingredient in various dishes. In terms of colour, cucamelons have a bright green hue with a striped pattern similar to watermelons, adding a touch of colour to dishes, salads, cocktails, and refreshments. In the kitchen, they are an unexpected addition to starters or fruit salads, and a peculiar and delicious garnish for main courses and sides. They are often used to add a crunchy texture and a spicy, fresh, and acidic flavour to a wide range of dishes, and can also be used in pickles or enjoyed on their own as a healthy snack, as they are packed with vitamins and antioxidants and share many of the same benefits as cucumbers. Swap the conventional cucumber for this fruit, mix it with other summer fruits (tomato, watermelon, berries), with purslane, beetroot, feta cheese, and burrata. The options are limitless, but the result is always the same - delicious and distinctive!