Vegetable, Squash | Gluten Free Vegan Low Carb Low Sodium

Choko

Sechium edule Allergen-Free
Choko

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Cucurbitaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Mesoamerican, Caribbean, Asian, Australasian
  • Seasonality Late Summer - Fall
  • Source Choko plant

The Forktionary Angle

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Definition

A mild, pear-shaped squash with pale green skin and white flesh, used as a vegetable in savory and sweet dishes.

Sensory Profile

TasteVery Mild, Slightly Sweet, Cucumber-like
TextureCrisp (raw), Tender, Watery (cooked)
AromaSubtle, Fresh, Green
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Nutrition Facts

Per 160g
Calories19 kcal
Total Fat0.1 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein0.8 g
Total Carbohydrate4.5 g
Dietary Fiber1.7 g
Total Sugars1.7 g
Calcium12 mg
Iron0.3 mg
Potassium125 mg

Chef’s Secret

When preparing choko, if handling a large quantity, wear gloves as the sap can be sticky and irritating to sensitive skin.

Substitutions

Best Match

Zucchini

1:1

Very similar mild flavor and texture when cooked, widely available.

Yellow Squash

1:1

Another mild, tender summer squash, behaves similarly in most recipes.

Cucumber (for raw uses)

1:1

Offers a crisp, refreshing quality for salads, but won't hold up to cooking as well.

Green Bell Pepper (cooked)

1:1

Provides a similar bulk and vegetable crunch, but has a more distinct flavor profile.

Buying Guide

Choose firm, blemish-free chokos. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks.

Flavor Pairings

Garlic onion chili cilantro lime tomatoes shrimp chicken coconut milk.