Last Friday at my Japanese class, I was given an unusual present, a chayote. A fellow student is an Italian chef who dislikes buying vegetables from supermarkets, instead he forages in the local mountains.
Ecco qua, a chayote!
I had not heard of chayotes before.
Originating from Mesoamerica and deeply rooted in Mayan and Aztec cultures, this pale green, pear-shaped vegetable has made its mark in selected countries globally. Some say chayote are a standout superfood.
Nutritional Benefits
Chayote is a nutritional powerhouse, boasting a range of health benefits:
– Low in Calories: Perfect for those watching their calorie intake.
– High in Fibre: Supports digestive health and keeps you feeling full longer.
– Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Packed with essential nutrients that contribute to overall wellness.
Chayote’s Global Popularity Varies
Chayote’s versatility and mild flavour have led to its popularity in various cuisines, particularly in Latin America and Southeast Asia. Here are some local names and regions where chayote is cherished:
– Jamaica: Known as Chocho.
– Haiti: Called Meliton or Mirliton.
– Philippines: Referred to as Sayote.
– Mauritius: Known as Chouxchoux.
– India: Called Chow Chow or Squash.
– Kenya: Known as Shasha.
– Indonesia: Referred to as Labu Siam.
In Japan, chayote is called Hiyatouri ヒヤトウリ. (My Japanese teacher had not heard of it and had to look it up!) It was introduced to the country in 1917 and can be found in selective locations.
Recent Superfood Innovations
The past decade has seen a surge in superfood innovations, each offering unique health benefits and culinary possibilities. Some notable examples include:
– “Tenderstem Broccoli”: Varieties like ‘Apollo’ and ‘Aspabroc’ are praised for their tender stems and ease of cultivation.
– “Fioretto Long-Stemmed Cauliflower”: This innovative cauliflower variety features loose clusters on long, tender stems, making it a favourite among home gardeners and chefs alike.
Intellectual Property in Plant Breeding
The development of these superfoods often involves significant research and investment. To protect their innovations, companies can utilise patents and Plant Variety Protection (PVP) certificates. These legal tools ensure that breeders can secure exclusive rights to their new plant varieties, encouraging ongoing innovation in the field.
I am not sure if anyone is doing genome research on Chayotes?
Modern plant breeding has been revolutionised by technologies like “genome editing”. Leading companies such as the Syngenta Group are at the forefront of applying CRISPR-Cas9 technology to develop crops with enhanced traits, such as increased resistance to diseases and improved nutritional profiles.
Superfood Trends
According to market researcher Mintel, the last decade has seen a significant number of new foods branded as “superfoods.” This trend reflects the growing consumer interest in health and wellness, driving innovation and variety in the food industry.
I think Chayote and other innovative superfoods can be more than just trendy buzzwords—they represent the evolving landscape of agriculture and nutrition, offering diverse and beneficial options for a healthier diet.
On social media I asked for suggestions how to prepare the chayote. One contributor suggested I make a gado gado style Indonesian salad. The chayote was deliciously crunchy but confess I added too much peanut butter to the sauce…