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How are gherkins used as food?
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Cucurbitales
Pumpkins and gourds, order Cucurbitales.
Gherkins are used as food in several ways, depending on the specific plant variety. While the term "gherkin" often refers to the small, immature fruits of the common cucumber (Cucumis sativus) used in commercial pickle mixtures, it also refers to the fruit of the West Indian gherkin (Cucumis anguria).123
The culinary uses for gherkins include:
- Pickling: This is the most common use for both the immature fruits of the common cucumber and the West Indian gherkin.124
- Raw or Cooked: The fruits of the West Indian gherkin can be served raw or cooked as a vegetable.23
- Curries: West Indian gherkins are also frequently used as an ingredient in curries.2
The gherkin plant belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family within the order Cucurbitales. It is important to note that the "Mexican sour gherkin," or mouse melon, is not a true gherkin but is grown for its tiny, savory fruits.234