Ash Gourd (kohla)

Ash Gourd also known as Kohla is a unique melon eaten mainly in India and China. Where the fruit originally came from is difficult to estimate, but it is thought that it probably originated in Japan, Indonesia or China. The fruit is known as one of the most energy-giving fruits due to its high content of “prana.”

Where does Ash Gourd grow?

Ash Gourd grows in countries with a (sub)tropical climate. The fruit grows best under full sun. In doing so, however, it is important that the plant has enough room to blow out. During the initial growth phase, it is important that the plant receives adequate water. Watch out for over watering the plant this can cause the roots to rot. The fruit is also called winter melon. The term winter refers to the frozen layer on the skin.

The taste

The taste is neutral and cold in character, mild and sweet in flavor. The mild flavor of this fruit is reminiscent of cucumber. The flesh is a particularly popular addition to Chinese and Indian dishes. Because the taste is neutral, the fruit can be easily incorporated into salads, smoothies or juices.

Where can you buy Ash Gourd?

Ash Gourd can be bought in the Netherlands mainly in Surinamese, Chinese and Turkish tokos/supermarkets. Because the fruit belongs to the fruit category, you can often find it on the fruit shelf of the respective toko or supermarket.

Nutritional value

The fruit consists of 96% water and is very low in calories, fat, protein and carbohydrates. The fruit contains small amounts of iron, magnesium, phosphorus, copper and manganese. These are not very large amounts and are usually around 3%. The fruit also contains Vitamin C and is a good source of flavonoids and carotenes, which are two antioxidants that help the body against cell damage and diabetes.

Recipes

In addition, the fruit tastes very good and has a lot of health benefits. Below we will explain 5 recipes:

• Chinese winter melon soup
• Winter Melon Smoothie
• Ash Gourd salad
• Winter Melon Curry
• Masala lauki and Wintermelon

Questions about Ash Gourd?

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