elonging to the easy-to-grow and healthy family of Cucurbitaceae, summer squashes are related to both the water-rich cucumber and the sweet melons! Not endowed with a very powerful taste such as the melon, the chappan kadu is more of a power-food than a tasty food. It’s a variety of Zucchini, actually. They were originally found in the caves of Mexico about 10,000 years ago! Since then they are now found in almost all around the world with India, China, Russia, and the United States being the largest producers of the summer squashes. Summer squashes have a white soft flesh which and a very soft shell which is also edible. They are a rich source of carotenoids, minerals, good carbohydrates, anti-oxidants. They are also abundant in Vitamin C, K, phosphorus, potassium, Vitamin B6, B1, Zinc, Copper, Omega-3 fatty acids, folate and other essential nutrients. These essentials make the Chappan Kadu anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and great for diabetic patients.

You can steam, boil, blanche, cook the summer squash for a curry-based dish or eat them raw. Some also add the summer squashes to soups, smoothies, and chutneys. So don’t wait up, add this healthful vegetable to your green patch, right away!