Suyo Long Cucumbers
Estimated Inventory, lb : 0
Description/Taste
Suyo Long cucumbers are thin and cylindrical, growing up to 45 centimeters in length. The edible skin is dark green and thin, with a ridged and knobbed texture. When young, these cucumbers may bear small, soft spikes that can easily be removed by rubbing the skin. Suyo Long cucumbers do not naturally grow straight, and can form interesting shapes, like curlicues, if they are not trellised. The pale green-to-white flesh has many edible, soft seeds, and offers a sweet and mild flavor with little to no bitterness and a crisp texture.
Seasons/Availability
Suyo Long cucumbers are available from late spring to late fall.
Current Facts
Suyo Long cucumbers are botanically classified as Cucumis sativus. They are a Chinese heirloom variety, and are a member of the Cucurbitaceae family along with melons and squashes. Suyo Long cucumbers are a “burpless” variety, as they lack the compound cucurbitacin that gives other varieties their bitterness. Burpless varieties tend to be sweeter and have thinner skins than other varieties.
Nutritional Value
Suyo Long cucumbers contain vitamins A, B, and C, as well as calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, and zinc.
Applications
Suyo Long cucumbers are best suited for raw applications, but are also used as refrigerator pickles. They are used in chilled soups, cucumber salads, and are popular in Sichuan cuisine. They pair well with citrus, hot pepper flakes, garlic, vinegar, herbs, nuts, seeds, and creamy, salty cheeses. Suyo Long cucumbers will keep up to a week when stored in a perforated bag in the refrigerator.
Ethnic/Cultural Info
Cucumbers are used in traditional Chinese medicine because they are believed to have healing and soothing properties. They became a common ingredient in home remedies around 960 CE, and have since been used to clear the body of toxins, cool the body from fever, and reduce inflammation.
Geography/History
Suyo Long cucumbers originated in northern China around 100 BCE, although the exact date is unknown. Today, Suyo Long cucumbers can be found in specialty markets in Japan, the United States, and Europe.
Recipe Ideas
Recipes that include Suyo Long Cucumbers. One
is easiest, three is harder.
