What is Ash Gourd Called in the USA? Exploring its Many Names

Ash gourd, scientifically known as Benincasa hispida, is a fruit native to Southeast Asia that has been a staple in traditional medicine and cuisine for centuries. For those new to international cooking or searching for it stateside, the question of what is ash gourd called in the USA is a common point of confusion, as it goes by several different names.

Quick Summary

Commonly sold as winter melon, wax gourd, or white pumpkin in the United States, ash gourd is a mild-flavored, versatile vegetable available in Asian and specialty markets, used in various cuisines.

Key Points

• Primary US Names: Ash gourd is most commonly called winter melon or wax gourd in the USA.

• Market Availability: Find ash gourd, or its aliases, primarily in Asian and international grocery stores.

• Versatile Flavor: The gourd has a very mild, neutral taste and easily absorbs the flavors of accompanying ingredients.

• Diverse Culinary Uses: It is used in savory dishes like soups and curries, as well as sweet preparations like candied sweets and beverages.

• Health Benefits: Ash gourd is known for its high water and fiber content, contributing to hydration, digestion, and potential detoxification.

• Visual Identification: Look for a large, pale green or grayish-white gourd, sometimes with a powdery or waxy coating.

Understanding the Ash Gourd

Ash gourd is a large, oblong fruit that is a member of the gourd family (Cucurbitaceae), which also includes cucumbers, squash, and melons. A key characteristic of the mature fruit is its fuzzy exterior, which later develops a powdery, ash-colored, waxy coating—the source of its name. The flesh inside is white, crisp, and has a very mild, almost neutral flavor, making it highly adaptable in a wide range of dishes. It is often used as a vegetable and cooked to absorb the flavors of other ingredients in a dish.

So, What is Ash Gourd Called in the USA?

In the United States, grocery stores and international markets rarely label this gourd simply as "ash gourd." Instead, you will find it under a variety of other names, most of which are more familiar in Chinese or Indian culinary contexts. The most common names to look for are:

• Winter Melon: This is arguably the most prevalent name in the USA, especially in Chinese markets. The name stems from the fact that the fruit, once harvested, can be stored throughout the winter months.
• Wax Gourd: This name refers to the distinctive, waxy coating that develops on the rind of the mature fruit.
• White Pumpkin: In Indian markets, it is frequently labeled as white pumpkin, though it is not a true pumpkin. This name distinguishes it from other common gourds.
• Chinese Watermelon: This is a less common but still used moniker, referring to its large size and melon-like appearance.

When you are at the market, looking for any of these alternative names will significantly increase your chances of finding this unique vegetable.

Where to Find Ash Gourd in the USA

Given its prominence in Asian cooking, the best place to find ash gourd (or winter melon) is at an Asian or international grocery store. Here are some common options:

• Asian Grocery Stores: Look for large Chinese supermarkets or smaller Indian grocery stores. They almost always carry it in their produce section, often pre-cut for convenience due to its large size.
• Online Grocery Services: Platforms like Instacart often list winter melon or ash gourd, making it possible to have it delivered from local specialty stores right to your doorstep.
• Farmers' Markets: In areas with diverse agricultural communities, some farmers' markets might carry it seasonally. It is most often grown and harvested in late summer or early fall.

How to Use Winter Melon in Your Kitchen

The mild flavor of winter melon allows it to be used in countless recipes, from savory to sweet. Its ability to absorb other flavors makes it an excellent addition to complex dishes.

Popular Culinary Uses

• Soups: A popular use in Chinese cuisine is a winter melon soup, often simmered with pork ribs, mushrooms, and herbs.
• Curries and Stews: In Indian cuisine, the gourd is often prepared in curries, known as kootu or sabzi, paired with lentils or other vegetables.
• Stir-Fries: Sliced winter melon can be stir-fried with other vegetables and proteins. It quickly becomes tender-crisp and soaks up the flavors of the sauce.
• Candies and Desserts: A famous Indian sweet called petha is made from cubes of candied ash gourd, which is popular during festivals. Winter melon tea is a sweet and refreshing drink widely consumed in many parts of Asia.

Comparison: Ash Gourd (Winter Melon) vs. Zucchini

Feature	Ash Gourd (Winter Melon)	Zucchini (Courgette)
Appearance	Large, round or oblong, green with a powdery white/waxy coating when ripe.	Long, cylindrical, typically dark green or yellow with smooth skin.
Flavor	Mild, neutral, and slightly sweet; absorbs flavors easily.	Mild, slightly sweet, and grassy; has a more distinct flavor.
Texture	Firm and crisp when raw; becomes soft and tender when cooked.	Tender and soft, can become watery if overcooked.
Best Uses	Soups, stews, curries, candies, and stir-fries.	Stir-fries, grilling, spiralizing, baking into bread, and sautéing.
Storage	Matures well and stores for several months in a cool, dry place.	Best used within a week; sensitive to moisture.

The Health Benefits of Winter Melon

Beyond its culinary versatility, ash gourd has been prized for centuries in traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine for its health properties.

• Hydrating and Cooling: With a water content of over 90%, it is highly hydrating and has a naturally cooling effect on the body, making it popular in summer drinks.
• Digestive Health: Rich in fiber, it promotes healthy digestion and can help prevent constipation.
• Detoxification: It is considered a powerful detoxifier that helps flush toxins from the body and supports liver and kidney function.
• Rich in Nutrients: It contains essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C and B-complex vitamins, contributing to overall health.
• Supports Weight Management: The high water and fiber content, combined with low calories, make it a beneficial food for those looking to manage their weight.

A Global Ingredient with Local Availability

What is ash gourd called in the USA is a question with multiple answers, but understanding its aliases unlocks a world of culinary possibilities. From savory soups to refreshing teas and rich curries, this vegetable is a highly versatile ingredient that has been a nutritional powerhouse in various cultures for generations. Don't be shy about exploring your local Asian market for winter melon or wax gourd, and you will find it is a delightful and healthy addition to your cooking repertoire.

To learn more about winter melon and its uses, you can explore the extensive resources on this topic from sources like Healthline.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the key to finding ash gourd in the American market is to remember its most common aliases: winter melon, wax gourd, and white pumpkin. While its name may vary, its mild flavor, versatile uses, and impressive health benefits remain consistent. Whether you are creating a soothing winter melon soup or a traditional Indian curry, this versatile vegetable is well worth the effort to seek out and incorporate into your cooking.

By knowing its different names and where to look, you can confidently add this flavorful and healthy gourd to your meals, bringing a touch of international flavor to your kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is ash gourd the same as winter melon?

Yes, ash gourd and winter melon refer to the same fruit, Benincasa hispida. The name "winter melon" is used because the mature fruit stores well throughout the winter.

Where can I buy winter melon in the US?

You can purchase winter melon at most large Asian supermarkets and international grocery stores. It is often found pre-cut due to its large size. Some online grocery services like Instacart also list it.

What does ash gourd taste like?

Ash gourd has a mild, almost flavorless taste, similar to a very mild cucumber. This neutral flavor makes it excellent for absorbing the flavors of other ingredients in a dish.

Can ash gourd be eaten raw?

While the taste is mild, ash gourd is typically not eaten raw. Its texture is best enjoyed cooked, where it softens and becomes tender, absorbing the flavors of sauces and broths.

What is the difference between ash gourd and bottle gourd?

While both are gourds, ash gourd (Benincasa hispida) and bottle gourd (Lagenaria siceraria) are different species. Ash gourd is generally larger, and its ripe form has a powdery coating, whereas bottle gourd is typically long, with smoother, greener skin.

Why is ash gourd also called wax gourd?

Ash gourd is called wax gourd because of the thick, waxy, and somewhat powdery coating that forms on the skin of the mature fruit. This waxy layer helps protect the melon, allowing it to be stored for extended periods.

How is winter melon used in Asian cuisine?

In Asian cuisine, winter melon is highly versatile. It is commonly used in soups, stir-fries, and stews to add substance and absorb flavor. In China, it is often featured in savory soups, while in India, it can be made into curries or the famous sweet, petha.