Mooli and chowchow

[bunn]

In the greengrocer in Tavistock, I found some Unusual Vegetables: mooli and chow chow. I am sure they came with insane numbers of food miles but I am bored of leeks now.

I had not seen either before, so will have to experiment. This: http://www.newindpress.com/sunday/sundayitems.asp?id=SEL20060310072052&eTitle=New+Age+Living&rLink=0 makes chow chow (or chayote) sound so amazing that I almost want to grow it, though I bet it's not frost hardy. See what it tastes like first!

Any recipe recommendations for my Unusual Vegetables?

I bought a box of physalis as well, which made me wonder if I should try growing those again. I don't know why they are always imported from so far away when you see them in the shops, as I have found they grow perfectly well in an unheated greenhouse in my garden: they seem to have similar requirements to tomatoes.

I also got some lychees. I do adore lychees and you usually can't get them here. alas, I fear they are one fruit I shall never be able to grow for myself!

Comments

[wellinghall.livejournal.com]

According to Irma Rombauer's "The Joy of Cooking":

Chayote has the same affinities as other summer squashes, but is especially good with cheese. It freezes well. If large, peel, under running water.

Mooli can be served raw, carved into flowers etc. Otherwise, pickle, add to soup, or grate and cook with other vegetables and spices. It is milder than our spring and summer radishes.

[bunn.livejournal.com]

The new india press article said try the chow chow raw, so I cut off a sliver. It is like a cross between watermelon and cucumber - rather nice.