Armenian Cucumber

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Description/Taste

Armenian cucumbers are slender, elongated, curved, and often irregularly curled, averaging 25-38 centimeters long. Its thin skin ranges from a dark green to light green and depending on the specific variety; it can be smooth or textured with longitudinal furrows and green stripes. Its flesh is crisp, sweet, succulent, and mild with some edible seeds, similar to a common cucumber. When sliced, Armenian cucumbers give off a scent reminiscent of cantaloupe.

Seasons/Availability

Armenian cucumbers are available in summer.

Current Facts

Armenian cucumbers, botanically classified as Cucumis melo var. flexuosus, are actually a melon and not a cucumber. Also known as Yard-long melon, Snake melon, Snake cucumber, Uri, Gutah, and Painted Serpent, Armenian cucumbers are defined within culinary terms by its appearance rather than its botanical classification. There are several different cultivars of the Armenian cucumber, which will determine its coloring and size at maturity.

Nutritional Value

Armenian cucumbers are a good source of vitamins C, A, and K, and potassium.

Applications

Armenian cucumbers can be used in both raw and cooked applications. There is no need to peel the Armenian cucumber as its thin skin makes it an ideal fresh slicing cucumber. Armenian cucumbers are popularly used raw in green leaf, chopped salads, and pasta salads. Their delicate flavor allows them to become a perfect textural component in sandwiches and sushi. They can be sliced lengthwise, widthwise, diced, and julienned. The Armenian cucumber can also be grilled, puréed, or pickled. Complimentary ingredients include red and white fish, shellfish, chilies, tomatoes, mint, oregano, yogurt, garlic, cumin, chicken, pork, and fresh cheeses such as feta and chevre. Armenian cucumbers will keep up to a week when stored in the refrigerator. Once cut, it should be wrapped in plastic and placed in the refrigerator to extend its shelf life.

Ethnic/Cultural Info

Jajik is a traditional Armenian dish that commonly uses Armenian cucumbers and is passed down from generation to generation. This side dish is made with cucumbers, yogurt, and garlic or mint and is often consumed in the summer to combat the hot temperatures outside. It is typically served with pita chips or flatbread and also pairs well with chicken and rice.

Geography/History

Armenian Cucumbers were first bred in Armenia in the 15th century and were spread with natural immigration to the New World. Today, Armenian cucumbers can be found growing in California and are available at specialty grocers and farmers markets in the United States and Europe.

Recipe Ideas

Recipes that include Armenian Cucumber. One

is easiest, three is harder.

What's Cooking America		Pickled Armenian Cucumbers with Fresh Dill
Garden Variety Life		Spicy Armenian Cucumber Salad
Noshtopia		Armenian Cucumber With Heirloom Tomatoes, Spring Onions and Dill
Pinch My Salt		Sweet and Spicy Dilled Cucumber Salad
Food Blogga		Watermelon Radish and Armenian Cucumber Salad
Kitchen Konfidence		Armenian Cucumber Infused Vodka
The Kitchn		Armenian Cucumber Salad
That's Some Good Cookin'		Sweet and Tangy Cucumber Salad
The Armenian Kitchen		Chilled Yogurt- Armenian Cucumber Soup
Big Oven		Tangerine Tango

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