Fuzzy Melon

by | Jan 31, 2010 | Uncategorized | 0 comments

Ingredient Name:  Fuzzy melon, hairy melon, fuzzy squash

Traditional Chinese Name: 节瓜 (jié guā) or 毛瓜(máo guā)

What is this?

  • A variety of winter melon that is more lean, long and is distinguished by it’s hairy exterior
  • Pulp is beige/white in color with seeds that run parallel to its body
  • Used in soups, dishes and stews (more commonly than its cousin, the winter melon)
  • It is an extremely common and staple vegetable in Cantonese cuisine

How do I prepare it?

  • Rinse in warm water first
  • Peel skin
  • Cut into large cubes (for soups)

Where can I buy this?

  • This is available in most Asian supermarkets
  • It is also available in most (if not all) Hong Kong wet marts

What is the cost

  • 1 medium-sized hairy melon costs around $6 HKD

Any benefits?

  • Helps detoxify the body
  • Excellent for neutral soups for children

Any precautions?

  • This type of melon tends to go sour when cooked and left too long from consumption (ie: boil soup and leave overnight)
  • Best when consumed immediately after cooking