Vegetable
raw dishcloth gourd.
VegetarianVeganGluten-freeDairy-freeNut-freePeanut-freeSoy-freeEgg-freeShellfish-freeHoney-freeAlcohol-free
ALSO KNOWN AS
towelgourd
SERVING
CALORIES
20
PROTEIN
1.2g
CARBS
4.3g
FAT
0.20g
FIBER
1.1g
NUTRITION PROFILE · per 100 g
Everything in this ingredient.
MACRONUTRIENTS
Calories20kcal—
Protein1.2g2%
Carbohydrates4.3g2%
Fiber1.1g4%
Sugar2.0g4%
Total fat0.20g0%
Saturated fat0.02g0%
Trans fat0g—
Cholesterol0mg0%
Water93.8g—
MINERALS
Sodium3.0mg0%
Potassium139mg3%
Calcium20mg2%
Iron0.36mg2%
Magnesium12mg3%
Phosphorus26mg2%
Zinc0.16mg1%
Copper0.07mg8%
Manganese0.09mg4%
Selenium0.30µg1%
VITAMINS
Vitamin A1.0µg0%
Vitamin C5.7mg6%
Vitamin D0µg0%
Vitamin E0.10mg1%
Vitamin K2.3µg2%
Thiamin (B1)0.04mg3%
Riboflavin (B2)0.03mg2%
Niacin (B3)0.40mg3%
Pantothenic acid (B5)0.20mg4%
Vitamin B60.04mg2%
Folate (B9)14µg4%
Vitamin B120µg0%
%DV based on a 2,000 cal diet. Source: USDA FoodData Central. A dash in the %DV column means there’s no established Daily Value for that nutrient.
MEASUREMENT CONVERSIONS
How much is what.
1 cup110g
1 tablespoon15g
1 teaspoon5g
1 ml1g
1 liter1000g
HEALTH BENEFITS
Why eat it.
- ✓High in water content, which aids in hydration.
- ✓A good source of dietary fiber, supporting digestive health and promoting satiety.
- ✓Contains Vitamin C, an antioxidant that boosts the immune system.
- ✓Low in calories and fat, making it a suitable choice for weight management diets.
COOKING TIPS
In the kitchen.
- 1Peel the tough outer skin and prominent ridges before cooking, as they can be fibrous.
- 2Its spongy texture absorbs flavors well, making it excellent for stir-fries, curries, and soups.
- 3Cook quickly over medium-high heat until just tender to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- 4Pairs well with ingredients like garlic, ginger, turmeric, lentils, and coconut milk.
STORAGE
Keep it fresh.
- Store unwashed in the crisper drawer of the refrigerator for up to one week.
- For longer storage, you can blanch and freeze slices in an airtight container.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions.
Is dishcloth gourd healthy?
Yes, dishcloth gourd is very healthy as it is low in calories and fat while being high in water content. It provides essential nutrients like Vitamin C for immune support and dietary fiber for digestive health.
How many calories and carbs are in dishcloth gourd?
A 100g serving of raw dishcloth gourd contains approximately 20 calories and 4.35g of carbohydrates. This low-calorie profile makes it an excellent choice for those monitoring their energy intake.
Is dishcloth gourd good for weight loss?
Yes, it is highly beneficial for weight loss due to its low calorie density and high fiber content. The fiber helps promote satiety, making you feel full longer, while the high water content aids in hydration.
Is dishcloth gourd keto-friendly?
Yes, dishcloth gourd is keto-friendly. With only 4.35g of total carbohydrates per 100g, it can easily fit into a low-carb or ketogenic lifestyle when consumed in standard portions.
Is dishcloth gourd vegan and gluten-free?
Yes, dishcloth gourd is a natural vegetable and is 100% vegan and naturally gluten-free. It is a safe and nutritious option for individuals with celiac disease or those following plant-based diets.
Can you eat dishcloth gourd raw?
While very young and tender gourds can be eaten raw in salads, they are most commonly cooked. As the gourd matures, it becomes increasingly fibrous and bitter, eventually reaching a stage where it is used as a sponge rather than food.
How do you cook dishcloth gourd?
It is best prepared by peeling the tough outer skin and slicing the flesh into rounds or cubes. It is commonly stir-fried, added to soups, or used in curries, where it quickly absorbs the flavors of the surrounding ingredients.
What does dishcloth gourd taste like?
Dishcloth gourd has a mild, slightly sweet, and refreshing flavor, similar to a cross between a zucchini and a cucumber. Its spongy texture is excellent for soaking up savory broths and sauces.
How do you store dishcloth gourd and how long does it last?
Store the gourd in a plastic bag in the refrigerator's crisper drawer. It typically stays fresh for 4 to 7 days, but it is best consumed quickly as it can lose moisture and become bitter over time.
How do you know if a dishcloth gourd is fresh?
Look for gourds that are firm to the touch, heavy for their size, and have bright green skin without soft spots or blemishes. Avoid gourds that feel hollow or have very hard skins, as these may be overripe and too fibrous to eat.
