Cantaloupe Melon: Origin, Benefits, and a Delicious Ice Cream Recipe
Cantaloupe melon, a part of the Cucumis melo species and belonging to the Cucurbitaceae family, takes its name from the Italian town of Cantalupo in Sabina, where it was introduced from Armenia. This melon is spherical, with yellow-greenish skin and a distinctive reticulated design. Its orange-colored flesh is sweet and aromatic.
Benefits of Cantaloupe Melon: Freshness and Health in Every Bite
Cantaloupe melon, with over 90% water content, offers remarkable benefits:
- Rich in Vitamin A and Betacarotenes: Improves vision, skin, and the immune system.
- High Vitamin C Content: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and healing properties.
- Source of Folate or Folic Acid: Important for red blood cell formation and nervous system development.
- Abundant in Potassium: Regulates blood pressure and balances fluids in the body.
- Low in Calories: Ideal for weight control diets, with only 34 kcal per 100 grams.
Varieties of Cantaloupe Melon: Exploring Options
Different varieties of cantaloupe melon are distinguished by size, shape, color, and flavor. Some well-known ones include:
- Charentais: Small, round, yellow, very sweet.
- Ogen: Medium, oval, green, sweet, and fragrant.
- Galia: Medium, round, yellow, sweet, and juicy.
- Honeydew: Large, oval, light green, sweet, and mild.
Exquisite Recipe: Cantaloupe Melon Filled with Ice Cream
Ingredients:
- 2 cantaloupe melons
- 400 g whipping cream
- 200 g condensed milk
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Mint leaves for decoration
Preparation:
- Cut the cantaloupe melons in half and scoop out the flesh with a melon baller or spoon.
- Freeze the empty skins to use as containers for the ice cream.
- Blend the melon flesh into a fine puree. Reserve in the refrigerator.
- Whip the cream until firm, add condensed milk and lemon juice, mix.
- Incorporate the melon puree and stir until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container, smooth the surface, and freeze for at least 4 hours.
- To serve, fill the frozen melon skins with ice cream, decorate with mint leaves, and enjoy.
* Required fields