Cucumbers are versatile vegetables that can be enjoyed in many ways, such as eating them fresh, making salads, garnishing dishes, or stir-frying. Each cucumber dish has its unique appeal, and they are readily available in markets and supermarkets. When buying cucumbers, you’ll notice some are straight, while others are curved. Some people prefer straight cucumbers for their convenience in preparation, while others opt for curved ones, believing they taste better. So, which type truly indicates quality? Read on to discover the insights shared by farmers.
Considering the Straightness of Cucumbers
Regarding the curvature of cucumbers, farmers who grow vegetables explain that cucumbers are naturally climbing plants. Belonging to the gourd family, along with factors like sunlight, temperature, and fertilizer application, cucumbers tend to have some curvature rather than being completely straight.
Farmers also share that straight cucumbers may have been treated with growth stimulants. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid excessively straight cucumbers and instead opt for slightly curved ones.
Additionally, it is best to refrain from choosing overly curved cucumbers. Their shape tends to be uneven, with one end larger than the other, and they are often stunted and lacking in nutrients.
Color of Cucumbers
According to farmers, typically, fresh cucumbers should have a vibrant green color that is slightly dark. Some people believe that lighter-colored cucumbers are softer, but this is not the case. Naturally grown cucumbers receive ample sunlight during their growth, resulting in a darker shade. In contrast, cucumbers treated with fertilizers or stimulants, as well as those grown in greenhouses, receive less sunlight, leading to a noticeably lighter color compared to naturally grown ones. Therefore, it is recommended to select cucumbers with a darker green color.
Observing the Flower at the Cucumber’s Navel
When purchasing cucumbers, take a moment to examine the navel, which is the indented end opposite the stem. You will notice that some cucumbers still have a small flower attached, while others do not. In nature, flowers on ripe cucumbers will fall off within a day.
However, if you come across cucumbers with large, bright, and fresh-looking flowers that remain attached even after harvesting, it indicates the use of growth regulators. These cucumbers should be avoided unless you pick them directly from the farm.
Examining the Spines of Cucumbers
Farmers explain that the spines on cucumbers serve as a protective mechanism during their growth. Fresh cucumbers will have small and dense spines that can be felt when touched and will easily fall off when rubbed. It is worth noting that fresh cucumbers or gherkins have many spines, and the number of spines increases as the cucumber matures. If you buy fresh cucumbers with spines, the best way to remove them is to soak the cucumbers in water, which will cause the spines to detach quickly. When purchasing cucumbers, look for those with dense and small spines.
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