Calabash The calabash is a large fruit native to Asia or Africa. The calabash, (crescentia cujeta), grows to be very large, though it’s size and shape varies a lot. The color starts out shiny green, and then as it ripens, it turns a pale brown. When the fruit is dried, it is used as a vessel. Calabash is similar in structure to a pumpkin. The calabash tree is an evergreen tree, and produces white flowers; however, the tree is very cold sensitive. The fruit grow off the trunk. The pulp from the calabash fruit is usually the only part eaten. The pulp is scooped out; the shell is discarded, or dried. The flesh contains numerous triangular shaped seeds. They are inedible. The flesh dire
Loofah The loofah is also known as the ridged gourd, luffa, dish cloth gourd, or Chinese okra. It has a flavor similar to summer squash, with a cucumber like crispness. The loofah is a gourd that is long and narrow. Most have strong ridges running lengthwise down the vegetable . Some varieties are also smooth. Buy when small, approximately 12 inches long, and when it is hard and heavy for it’s size. Loofahs can also be harvested and dried to be used as a “dish cloth” or rag. Loofahs are low in calories and also contain vitamin C. Loofah and Chicken Stir Fry 1/2 lb skinless boneless chicken breast, cut across grain into 1/8 inch thick slices 2 tsp. cornstarch 1 1/4 tsp. Asian sesame oil