The origin of the honeydew melon

Content

• The origin of the honeydew melon
• The triumph of honeydew melon all over the world
• The origin of the honeydew melons in the trade at different seasons
• The honeydew melon - fruits or vegetables?
• Tips & Tricks

The origin of the honeydew melon

The honeydew melon has become so established in the supermarkets in Germany in recent decades that it is no longer considered to be particularly exotic with its different varieties.

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The triumph of honeydew melon all over the world

Scientists were able to prove that the honeydew melon is one of the oldest crops in human history. In general, melons were valued thousands of years ago not only for their fully ripe pulp, but also for the seeds that could be used as food on boat crossings and for the production of flour. Originally honeydew melons come from West Africa, but were planted in Egypt and Persia about 4,000 years ago. Later sailors brought the melons to America, so they are widely grown today.

The origin of the honeydew melons in the trade at different seasons

Today, honeydew melons are grown in warm climates in many countries. Most of the crop varieties come from breeds in France and Algeria. In principle, honeydew melons from different growing areas are available all year round, in Germany they are grown on site in the southern Rhine Valley and in the Palatinate. However, honey melons are best to get during the high season from June to September, then they are harvested in the following European countries:

However, in terms of quantity worldwide, the most important production areas for honeydew melons are in the following countries:

The honeydew melon - fruits or vegetables?

Botanically, the honeydew melon belongs to the family of cucurbits, so it is also closely related to the cucumbers. Despite the very sweet taste, therefore, always comes back to the question of whether honey melons are classified as fruit or vegetables. In addition you should know that for this distinction actually does not depend on the sweet or savory taste of a fruit, especially since honeydew melons in this country are mainly eaten as a dessert, in other countries but quite well in piquant preparations. Since the plant has to grow anew every year in the case of honeydew melon and has to grow completely from the seeds in the new season, the honeydew melon has to be scientifically classified as a vegetable. In contrast, olives, for example, despite their taste count as fruit, because they grow on perennial trees.

Tips & Tricks

Honeydew melons have a mild sweetness, which is a perfect contrast to ham and various summer appetizers.