Friday, 19 October 2012

Achocha - Cyclanthera Pedata

Achocha is a South American Cucumber, it originated in the Andes and is reputed to be one of the lost foods of the Incas. This one self seeded itself in my garden and the vine was so pretty that it was left alone.

Achocha with Chervil
The small prickly fruit can be used in most cucumber recipes and are delicious when eaten raw, when picked young. They have a lovely crunch and the prickles makes them an interesting challenge for children.