Food Trivia Question from the Oriental Oasis Newsletter
TRIVIA QUESTION: Thought to have originated in India, I was probably introduced to China during the Han dynasty (206 B.C. - A.D. 220). My arrival in the New World came somewhat later, as Columbus introduced me to Haiti in 1494. I am a popular addition to salads in western cooking, and am the main ingredient in a type of English sandwich. However, the Chinese normally do not eat me raw, preferring to add me to stir-fries. I am also quite popular pickled. What am I?
TRIVIA ANSWER: Cucumber, or Cucumis sativis to use its scientific name.
Cucumbers have long been a favorite with many cultures, including the ancient Romans. The
expression "cool as a cucumber" apparently comes from English physicians
advising patients to lie on cucumbers, in the mistaken belief that this would lower their
fever. Nutritionally, cucumbers are an excellent source of Vitamin A.
Recipes:
Cucumber Salad
Shrimp
and Cucumber Stir-fry
Su-no-Mono
(Japanese Cucumber and Noodles)
