Fuzzy Gourd

Also fuzzy melon, hairy squash (or melon or gourd), little winter melon; tsee gua, mo qwa and variations (Chinese)

See also: WINTER MELON

First-time shoppers for this slightly prickly character sometimes confuse it with forms of bottle gourd. Although it can look superficially similar, it is fuzzy, while bottle gourd is smooth. More important for the cook, its culinary personality is distinct, ranging between zucchini and cucumber enhanced with a lemony edge. The two types I have seen in New York City suggest both vegetables: One is slightly belled, lighter green, and dappled (left in photo); the other is stocky, cylindrical, exceptionally juicy, firm, and sweet.