Pati's Mexican Table: Chayote Squash

Pati Jinich
Chayote, also called chayote squash (it is from the squash family), choko, vegetable pear, mirliton and christophene, is a beautiful pear like shaped vegetable. Ironically, it has a texture similar to a pear that isn't ripe, but less grainy. Yet the chayotes isn't wholly sweet, it just has a sweet hint, barely a whisper, really. Its flavor is more neutral, like a cross between a pear and a cucumber... and zucchini. Well, you just have to give them a try.

Crispy, watery, very low-fat, with a clean and wholesome feel, chayote can be used many ways. Most typically in soups, as a warm vegetable side, a cold salad or very popularly stuffed either with a sweet or savory spin. They are most times cooked and best al dente, unless eaten stuffed (continue for more information and photo).

There are different kinds of Chayotes. These here in the photo are probably the most common, and the easiest to find outside of Mexico. They are mild, with a mild green color and a mild, friendly and accommodating flavor. There are some that have a darker green color, and even purple tones, with thick and short thorns throughout their skin.

Chayotes tend to store well. They can last for more than a couple weeks in the refrigerator.

POSTED IN: Vegetables , Ingredients

TAGS: Chayote , Choko , Fruit and Vegetable , Mexico , Mirliton , Pear , Squash , Vegetable

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It's a coincidence for me that you posted about chayote. I just read that it is the time of year here to plant them here, but I'd never heard of it before. From your image, I realize I've seen it, but I've never eaten it. Glad to learn something new. Thanks.

Kristin | March 9, 2010 10:49 AM | Reply

You have to try them! Will post some recipes soon...

Pati Jinich replied to comment from Kristin | March 9, 2010 11:54 AM | Reply

i had this a long time ago, Pati at a Costa Rican friend's home in Rome- he smuggled it past customs on his trip back from Mexico City! Would love to see a recipe of yours here.

shayma | April 27, 2010 3:32 PM | Reply

Thank you Shayma!! I will post a recipe for Chayotes soon... promise! I have a couple of real favorites...

Pati Jinich replied to comment from shayma | April 27, 2010 11:45 PM | Reply

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