Xuxu: What Fruit is It in Indonesia?
Xuxu is the name that refers to the chayote fruit (Sechium edule) in several countries, especially in Brazil and Portugal. In Indonesia, this fruit is better known as chayote or jipang. Chayote belongs to the gourd family (Cucurbitaceae) and is often used in various traditional dishes.
Characteristics of Xuxu (Chayote)
- Shape: The fruit is shaped like a pear with light green to dark green skin, and has a slightly wrinkled texture.
- Size: Generally around 10–20 cm long with a weight of 200–500 grams per fruit.
- Fruit Flesh: Greenish white in color, crunchy when raw, but becomes soft after cooking.
- Taste: Tends to be bland with a slightly sweet taste and fresh.
Benefits of Xuxu (Chayote)
Chayote is rich in nutrients and has many health benefits, including:
- Source of Fiber: Good for digestion and preventing constipation.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Contains vitamin C and flavonoids that help fight free radicals.
- Lowers Blood Pressure: Potassium in chayote helps control blood pressure.
- Good for Diet: Low in calories and high in water, suitable for maintaining weight.
How to Consume
In Indonesia, chayote is often used in various dishes such as:
- Vegetables Lodeh: Chayote cooked with coconut milk and spices.
- Stir-fried Chayote: Stir-fried with garlic and chili.
- Lalapan: Can be eaten raw after being boiled briefly.
- Complementary to Soto and Pecel: Cut into small pieces and used as an additional vegetable.
Conclusion
Xuxu or chayote is a fruit that is widely used in Indonesian cuisine. In addition to being delicious, chayote is also rich in health benefits. With various processing methods, chayote is a versatile food ingredient and is easy to find in traditional markets and supermarkets.