The snake cucumber, also called the greenhouse cucumber, looks like an elongated version of the classic cucumber. And indeed: it is usually from 25 to even 40 centimeters long. Its skin is thin, smooth and devoid of characteristic protuberances. Below it, we will find homogeneous flesh with a minimum amount of small seeds, and we will not find a watery center that often ends up in the trash when cutting traditional cucumbers. However, we are still talking about cucumber, but bred for cultivation under cover.
Snake cucumber grows best in controlled conditions. It likes warmth and constant humidity, but does not like drafts. Therefore, it is most often grown in greenhouses or foil tunnels. In Poland, climatic conditions are not always favorable to it, especially during colder nights. But that doesn’t mean it’s beyond our reach.
Well, more and more Polish farms produce snake cucumbers locally. You can also try it in your home garden, provided you provide it with a warm location, fertile soil and regular watering. However, there is no way to do it without systematicity.
It is also worth knowing that snake cucumbers are usually parthenocarpic varieties. This means that they set fruit without pollination. Thanks to this, they have fewer seeds and a more uniform structure. That’s why they work so well in modern greenhouse crops.
At first glance, the difference between a snake cucumber and a regular one is obvious. Length, smooth skin, no visible warts. But this is just the beginning. The classic field cucumber has thicker skin and clearer seeds. It is also more often bitter in taste, while the snake cucumber is milder and more predictable in this respect.
Differences can also be seen in application. Field cucumbers are perfect for pickling and preserving. They have a compact structure that tolerates brine and fermentation well. Snake cucumber is better as an addition to fresh salads or sandwiches. Its delicate flesh and almost imperceptible seeds prevent it from dominating the dish.
About 95% snake cucumber. consists of water. And this is its greatest advantage. On hot days, it acts as a natural hydration drink. It hydrates and provides small amounts of potassium, magnesium and vitamin K. The low calorie content is also important. 100 grams contain only a dozen or so calories. This makes the snake cucumber an ally of people who care about their figure.
Moreover, the high water and fiber content helps in the functioning of the intestines. Regularly eating fresh cucumbers can therefore support digestion and a feeling of lightness after a meal. Additionally, it has a gentle diuretic effect, which helps remove excess water from the body.
The easiest way is to cut the snake cucumber into slices, add a bit of salt, sprinkle with lemon and it’s ready. But this is just the beginning. This vegetable works great in cold soups, especially those based on natural yogurt, kefir or buttermilk.
Combined with garlic, dill and a bit of olive oil, it creates something between a salad and a sauce. You can also make a green smoothie with mint and apple, refreshing flavored water or thin ribbons for a salad with feta and tomatoes.
Thin skin, no hard seeds, high water content and lightness that we often miss on the plate – this is the snake cucumber in all its glory. Maybe next time, standing at the vegetable shelf, instead of reaching for something we have known for years, we will choose the longer copy lying next to it?
Source: Terazgotuje.pl
