Cucumber, also known as Cucumis sativus, is a widely cultivated and consumed vegetable that belongs to the gourd family, Cucurbitaceae. With its refreshing taste, high water content, and versatility, cucumber has become a staple ingredient in various cuisines around the world.
You can gather many informative points about cucumber from the article below. Like – cucumber in Tamil, its cost, nutritional value, health benefits, uses, popularity, availability in the local area, and many more.
Cucumber in Tamil name
| English name | Cucumber |
| Tamil name | Vellari or Vellarikay |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cucurbitales |
| Family | Cucurbitaceae |
| Genus | Cucumis |
| Species | Cucumis sativus |
Vellari or Vellarikay is the Tamil Name for Cucumber. They are widely used in various culinary preparations across Tamil-speaking people in Tamil Nadu, such as dishes like salads, Raita, Pickle, Sabzi (Curry), Snacks, Juices and Coolers, Sandwich and Rolls, also for Beauty and Health, Traditional Preparations and in preserve forms.
Cucumbers are widely used in Tamil Nadu, a southern state of India, in various culinary preparations. They are an essential part of the state’s cuisine and are utilized in a range of dishes. There are several dishes that specifically feature cucumbers as the main ingredient, such as “Vellarikkai Poriyal” (cucumber stir-fry) and “Vellarikkai Kootu” (cucumber and lentil stew).
Health Benefits of Cucumber
Cucumbers offer a variety of health benefits due to their nutrient content and unique properties. Here are some of the potential health benefits of consuming cucumbers:
- Hydration
- Nutrient-Rich
- Weight Management
- Digestive Health
- Skin Health
- Antioxidant Properties
- Heart Health
- Bone Health
- Anti-Inflammatory Benefits
- Potential Cancer Protection
- Diabetes Management
- Detoxification
Side Effects of Cucumber
While cucumbers are generally safe and well-tolerated by most people, there are a few potential side effects or considerations to keep in mind:
- Allergic Reactions
- Cucumber Peel and Digestive Issues
- Difficult to Digest Cucumber Seeds
- Avoid Cucumber Overconsumption
- Avoid Cucumber During Pregnancy
- Cucumber Interactions with Medications
- Pesticide Residues
- Kidney Problems
- Blood Clotting
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Some photo of Cucumber
Different Varieties of Cucumber
Cucumbers come in various shapes, sizes, colours, and flavours. Different cucumber varieties are cultivated for specific purposes, such as slicing, pickling, or speciality dishes. Here are some common cucumber varieties:
- English Cucumber (Burpless Cucumber)
- Persian Cucumber
- Pickling Cucumber
- Lemon Cucumber
- Kirby Cucumber
- Japanese Cucumber
- Armenian Cucumber (Snake Melon)
- Indian Cucumber (Dosakai)
- Long English Cucumber
- Bush Cucumber
- White Wonder Cucumber
- Straight Eight Cucumber
- Diva Cucumber
These are just a few examples of the many cucumber varieties available in India. Each type has its own unique characteristics and uses, so you can choose the one that best suits your culinary preferences and needs.
Nutritional Value of Cucumber
Cucumbers are low-calorie, hydrating vegetables that offer a range of nutritional benefits. Here is the estimated nutritional value of 1 cup (about 104 grams) of sliced, raw, unpeeled cucumber:
| Nutritions | Values |
|---|---|
| Calories | 15 calories |
| Carbohydates | 3.63 grams |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.5 grams |
| Sugars | 1.67 grams |
| Protein | 0.65 grams |
| Fat | 0.11 grams |
| Vitamins | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Vitamin K | 16.4 micrograms |
| Vitamin C | 2.8 miiligrams |
| Vitamin A | 105 IU |
| B Vitamins | B1 (Thiamine), B5 (Pantothenic Acid) |
| Minerals | Values |
|---|---|
| Potassium | 147 milligrams |
| Magnesium | 13 milligrams |
| Manganese | 0.079 milligrams |
| Phosphorus | 24 milligrams |
| Other Nutrients | Calcium, iron, zinc, and other trace minerals. |
Cost of Cucumber in Tamil areas
The market prices of cucumbers in India can differ based on factors such as location, season, quality, variety, and demand-supply dynamics. Cucumber prices can differ significantly between different regions and markets within India. Also, prices can fluctuate due to weather conditions, transportation costs, and overall agricultural trends.
Wholesale Markets
In wholesale markets, the price of cucumbers can vary between Rs. 10 to Rs. 40 per kilogram, depending on the factors mentioned earlier.
Retail Markets
The price may be slightly higher in retail markets, ranging from Rs. 20 to Rs. 60 per kilogram or even more during peak demand periods.
Seasonal Variations
Cucumber prices may be lower during the peak harvesting season when there is an abundance of supply. Prices may rise during off-seasons or periods of unfavourable weather conditions.
Availability of Cucumber in Tamil areas
Cucumbers are widely available in India and are cultivated throughout the country. They are a popular and versatile vegetable used in various culinary preparations. Cucumber cultivation is not limited to a specific region; you can find cucumbers in urban and rural areas. Here’s a general overview of availability of cucumber in Tamil areas
- All-Year Availability
- Variety of Markets
- Rural and Urban Areas
- Seasonal Variations
- Local Varieties
- Export and Import
- Organic and Specialty Markets
- Processed Products
It’s worth noting that availability and prices can vary from one region to another, and factors such as local climate, consumer demand, and transportation networks can influence cucumber availability in specific areas.
To get the most accurate and up-to-date information about cucumber availability in your particular location, it’s recommended to visit local markets and grocery stores or contact agricultural authorities in your region.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cucumber also known as vellari or vellarikay are versatile and widely enjoyed vegetables with a range of nutritional and culinary benefits. They are a major food in many cuisines around the world, including Indian cuisine.
Incorporating cucumbers into your diet can contribute to a healthy and balanced eating pattern. Whether you enjoy them as a refreshing snack, a key ingredient in traditional dishes, or an addition to your creative culinary experiments, cucumbers are a valuable and enjoyable part of a well-rounded diet.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are cucumber peels edible?
Yes, cucumber peels are edible and contain additional nutrients and fibre. However, some people may peel cucumbers if their skin is tough or bitter.
2. Do cucumbers have seeds?
Yes, cucumbers do have seeds, but the size and quantity of seeds can vary depending on the cucumber variety. Some varieties, like English cucumbers, have smaller and less noticeable seeds. If the seeds are very hard in size then avoid to eat those seeds because this may cause irritation in your stomach.
3. Can I pickle cucumbers at home?
Yes, cucumbers can be pickled at home using vinegar, water, salt, and spices. Pickling cucumbers are often smaller and have a bumpy texture that holds up well during the pickling process.
4. How should I store cucumbers?
Store cucumbers in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer to keep them fresh. If the cucumbers are wrapped in plastic, removing the plastic before storing it is a good idea.
