Winter Melon

Winter melon is one of the most versatile vegetables for home cooks because it is one of the few vegetables that produce fruits on its own. Winter melon is a gourd with a small, smooth, light green skin that is either blanched or lightly steamed. It is a winter crop, so it comes out of dormancy in late-March through May, and then matures from July through September. Because of its ease of storage and versatility, winter melon is often used in place of squash to make soups and stews. The vegetable is also a common ingredient in stir-fries and other types of Asian dishes where it can be used to add texture and punch.Winter melon is high in vitamins A and C, as well as other antioxidants and minerals. It also lowers blood pressure and reduces oxidative stress and inflammation.