This common cucumber variety is also known as seedless, greenhouse, or European cucumbers.
Theres lots of cucumber varieties out there, but we all have our favorite kind to enjoy.
English cucumbers are a common variety also known as seedless, greenhouse, or European cucumbers.
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They can be eaten in so many ways, frommarinatedor raw insalads, to cold appetizers or in sandwiches.
There are as many ways to appreciate a cucumber as there are cucumber varieties to try.
But what is this long cucumber, and why is it wrapped in plastic?
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Read on to learn from experts how to buy, store, and eat English cucumbers.
What Is An English Cucumber?
The cucumber is a creeping vine plant that grows into a cylindrical shape.
But the English cucumber is a very unique sort of cucumber and deserves its own attention.
The taste is mildly sweet.
It will not overpower a dish.
It is considered one of the sweetest varieties of cucumbers, mainly because the seeds are not bitter.
As for taste, its going to be unique.
Unwashed or cut, cucumbers will last up to two weeks, says Hester.
Just pick a few up during your usual weekly grocery shopping.
Stay away from cucumbers with any bruising or nicks in the skin because these can lead to deterioration.
They can be sauteed, pan-fried, stir-fried, or roasted.
The English cucumber can be sliced thin, so making small rounds will fit perfectly into a sandwich!
says Robin DeCicco, holistic nutritionist ofThe Power of Food Education.
But English cucumbers can be used in any recipe in which you would use any other traditional cucumber option.
They do not need to be peeled because their skin is very tender.
I also like to pickle them with that tender skin.
First, as mentioned already, they are sweeter.
The standard cucumber also comes with a waxy finish and has a thicker skin.
You may want to peel it.
The Persian is an excellent cucumber.
It is small with smooth skin and few seeds.
The Kirby is a cucumber that is cultivated as apickling cucumber.
It is grown to be consistent in size (good for pickling) and superbly crunchy.
You absolutely do not need to peel and I would not recommend it, adds LaMarita.
Frequently Asked Questions
They usuallycome wrapped in plasticas the skin is thin and they will bruise easily.
They also dehydrate easily and can become limp as they lose moisture.
Common cucumbers have a wax coating that protects them.
Keeping cucumbers wrapped helps extend their life.
Depending on the dish, other varieties will work in place of English cucumbers.
In recipes where the cucumber will be cooked, such as a stir-fry, zucchini makes a good swap.
