Spiney Chayote

Seasonality: Year round
Origin: Mexico

The flesh of the spiney or prickly chayote is crisp and juicy, with a mild and slightly sweet flavor that is similar to a cross between a cucumber and a zucchini. Some professional chefs prefer spiney chayote over smooth chayote for its slightly sweet flavor.

Spiney chayote is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of dishes including salads, stir-fries and soups. Its unique texture and flavor make it an excellent addition to any dish, adding a burst of freshness and crunch.

Use caution when handling spiney chayote as the spines are sharp and it releases a sticky latex when peeled that can irritate your skin. We recommend wearing gloves. To peel chayote, cut both ends and shave off the spines and skin with a paring knife or Y-peeler. From there, chayote can be sliced, cubed or even spiralized to make noodles.