Chi qua

%E7%AF%80%E7%93%9C Benincasa hipida v chieh-qua -%E9%A6%99%E6%B8%AF%E5%98%89%E9%81%93%E7%90%86%E8%BE%B2%E5%A0%B4 Kadoorie Farm, Hong Kong- (9213322495)

Chi qua (Benincasa hispida var. chieh-qua), also known as the hairy gourd, fuzzy gourd, or Chinese preserving melon, is a variety of the winter melon that is widely cultivated in East Asia and Southeast Asia. Unlike its smooth-skinned relative, the winter melon, chi qua is characterized by its fuzzy, fine hair-covered skin when young, which becomes less pronounced as the fruit matures. This vegetable is highly valued in Asian cuisines for its nutritional benefits and versatility in cooking.

Description

Chi qua is a vine-like plant that belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family, which includes gourds, melons, cucumbers, and squash. The fruit is oblong or cylindrical in shape, typically growing to 10-30 cm in length. Young chi qua fruits have a bright green color and are covered with a fine, fuzzy hair, which is why it is often referred to as the hairy gourd. As the fruit matures, its skin becomes smoother and the hair less noticeable, turning a pale green to white color.

Culinary Uses

In culinary contexts, chi qua is prized for its mild, slightly sweet flavor and crisp texture. It is commonly used in a variety of dishes, including soups, stir-fries, and stews. The young, tender fruits are preferred for cooking, as they are more flavorful and less fibrous than the mature ones. Chi qua can be peeled before cooking, although the skin is edible. It is often combined with other ingredients such as meat, shrimp, mushrooms, and herbs to enhance its taste.

Nutritional Value

Chi qua is low in calories but rich in essential nutrients, including vitamin C, vitamin B6, and potassium. It also contains a significant amount of dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health. The vegetable's high water content makes it hydrating and helps in maintaining a healthy weight.

Cultivation

Chi qua thrives in warm, humid climates and is typically grown in regions with long, hot summers. It is planted in well-drained, fertile soil and requires regular watering to support its rapid growth. The plant is trellised to encourage vertical growth and to keep the fruits off the ground, preventing rot and pest infestation. Harvesting usually occurs in the summer and early autumn when the fruits are young and tender.

Cultural Significance

In many Asian cultures, chi qua is not only valued for its culinary uses but also for its supposed medicinal properties. It is believed to have cooling effects on the body and is often consumed during the hot summer months to prevent heatstroke. Additionally, chi qua is sometimes used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including colds, fever, and gastrointestinal issues.