Melothria scabra is a species of
cucurbitaceous vine grown for its edible fruit, known as
cucamelon. Cucamelons are about the size of grapes and taste like cucumbers, they are notable for their sour aftertaste that comes from the skin.
The
M. scabra plant is native to Mexico and Central America, where it is called
sandíita (little watermelon). It is believed to have been a domesticated crop before western contact began.
If you happen to get your hands on these tiny melons, apparently they are terrific in stir-fries; they can be pickled just like French gherkins, eaten raw in salads or put up like Polish dill pickles. They also can be chopped and added to salsas for extra texture and flavor.
