The African horned cucumber is a unique and visually striking fruit that often captures attention with its unusual appearance. This intriguing produce goes by several common names, including kiwano, horned melon, and jelly melon.
What is the African Horned Cucumber?
The African horned cucumber, scientifically known as Cucumis metuliferus, is an annual vine belonging to the cucumber and melon family, Cucurbitaceae. Its exterior is covered in prominent, horn-like spines and ripens to a bright golden yellow or orange color. Inside, the fruit contains a vibrant lime-green, jelly-like pulp filled with numerous edible seeds.
This fruit is native to Southern and Central Africa, where it has been cultivated for over 3,000 years. Its natural habitat spans countries such as South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Angola, thriving in dry or semi-arid conditions, including the Kalahari Desert. Today, the African horned cucumber is also commercially grown in other parts of the world, including New Zealand, Australia, and California.
How to Enjoy African Horned Cucumber
The taste profile of the African horned cucumber is unique, often described as a blend of various fruits. Many people report flavors reminiscent of a combination of banana, passion fruit, and lime, while others detect notes of cucumber and kiwi. This versatile flavor allows it to be incorporated into both sweet and savory applications.
To enjoy the fruit, cut it in half lengthwise and scoop out the jelly-like flesh with a spoon. The seeds are edible and do not need to be removed. It can be added to smoothies, mixed into fruit salads, or used as a garnish for desserts and cocktails. It also works well as a topping for yogurt or in cold dressings.
When selecting a ripe African horned cucumber, look for a fruit that has turned a bright orange color and yields slightly to the touch. Unripe fruits will be green and can taste more like a standard cucumber. Once ripe, the fruit can be stored at room temperature for several months, though it should be kept away from ripening fruits like apples and bananas, as they can shorten its longevity.
Nutritional Value and Health Benefits
The African horned cucumber offers a range of beneficial nutrients. A 100-gram serving provides approximately 44 calories, with about 7.56 grams of carbohydrates, 1.26 grams of fat, and 1.78 grams of protein. It is also a good source of water, with nearly 89 grams per 100-gram serving.
This fruit contains several vitamins and minerals. It is a source of Vitamin C, providing about 5.3 milligrams per 100 grams. It also contains minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus. The fruit contains antioxidants like Vitamin C, Vitamin A (beta-carotene), zinc, and lutein, while its seeds are rich in alpha-tocopherol and beta-tocopherol, forms of Vitamin E.