Cucumber (खीरा, ककड़ी)

Cucumis sativus, Cucumber - green - elongate


cucumber nutrition facts

About Cucumber

Cucumber

There are hundreds types of cucumbers available in market, essentially low in calories. Cucumbers are mainly known for their hydrating properties. Cucumbers are full of water (about 95%). Cucumbers are commonly known for their long, cylindrical shap with bright green skin. Cucumber is being used/ consumed as Fresh in Salad OR separate As Vegetables and As pickle.

Cucumber is summer must have food, as it detoxifies human body and also maintain’s healthy skin. Some of the health benefit of including Cucumber in your daily meal plan. Cucumber is actually Fruit, but it’s been treated/ consumed as a vegetables.

  • Detoxifies and Hydrate Human Body
  • Reduces Dark Circles (external use)
  • Help Treating Bad Breath
  • Help in Weight Management ( Promotes Weight loss)
  • Help Regulating Blood Pressure
  • Helps improving Digestion
  • Helps in Cures Hangover

Cucumber is widely used to make many recipes like cucumber stir fry, cucumber egg recipe, cucumber salad. It is rich source of potassium, fiber and vitamin C. It also contains good amounts of vitamin K, magnesium, manganese and vitamin A.

In Ayurveda, cucumber is valued for its cooling properties and ability to balance Pitta dosha. It is considered beneficial for digestive health and hydration, making it ideal for hot climates. Cucumber is also known to aid in detoxification and support skin health. In home remedies, cucumber is often used to soothe sunburns and reduce puffiness around the eyes due to its high water content and anti-inflammatory properties. Its juice is also recommended for promoting healthy skin and aiding digestion when consumed regularly.

How to Store Cucumber

To store cucumbers, start by gently washing them under cool water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a clean towel to prevent excess moisture, which can lead to spoilage. Next, place the cucumbers in a perforated plastic bag to allow for airflow, which helps maintain their crispness. Store the bag in the vegetable crisper drawer of your refrigerator, ideally at a temperature between 7 to 10°C (45 to 50°F). Avoid storing cucumbers near ethylene-producing fruits, such as apples and bananas, as this can cause them to spoil faster.

Shelf Life of Cucumber

Cucumbers have a shelf life of about 1 week when stored in the refrigerator. To maximize freshness, keep them in a perforated plastic bag in the vegetable crisper drawer, away from ethylene-producing fruits.

How to Check Cucumber Before Buying

When checking cucumbers before purchasing, look for those that are firm, smooth, and evenly colored, avoiding any that appear wrinkled, soft, or have blemishes. The skin should be shiny, indicating freshness. Gently squeeze the cucumber; it should feel solid without any give. A fresh cucumber will also have a slightly crisp sound when you tap it. 

If possible, choose medium-sized cucumbers, as they tend to be more flavorful and have fewer seeds than larger ones. 

Procuring cucumbers in bulk can be advisable if you plan to consume them within a week, as they have a shelf life of about 7 days when stored properly. However, if you’re unsure of using them quickly, it’s better to buy smaller quantities to avoid spoilage. Always inspect the quality carefully to ensure freshness when buying in bulk.

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