English Cucumbers: Difference Between Cucumber Varieties
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Last Updated on June 11, 2024
Do you wonder what the differences are between English cucumbers and other cucumber varieties? These seedless cucumbers are popular because the skin is more tender and the flavor a little less bitter. Learn what sets English cucumbers apart and all the health benefits assoociated with them.
English Cucumber
An English cucumber, also known as a hothouse cucumber or cucumis sativus, is a member of the gourd family.
These are seedless cucumbers that are often found wrapped in plastic at the grocery store.
Their thin skin and sweet flavor make them a favorite among many. I love using these cucumbers for cucumber salad and making quick pickles.
My daughter has always been obsessed with cucumbers, and these long seedless cucumbers are her favorite to munch on!
English Cucumbers Vs. Regular Cucumbers
The main difference between English cucumbers and regular slicer cucumber lies in their skin, seeds, and taste.
English cucumbers have a thin skin, unlike the thicker skin of standard cucumbers which can have a bitter taste.
Also, while regular cucumbers have large seeds, English ones contain tiny seeds, making them essentially seedless.
Other Types of Cucumbers
Besides English cucumbers, there are other varieties of cucumbers:
- Standard Cucumbers: Also known as regular slicer cucumbers, these have a thicker skin compared to English cucumbers. They typically have large seeds and might carry a slightly bitter flavor. Their dark green skin is often peeled before consumption due to its bitterness.
- Persian Cucumbers: These are smaller than English cucumbers but share a similar sweet flavor and thin, edible skin. Persian cucumbers are also virtually seedless and lack the bitter taste found in standard cucumbers.
- Hothouse Cucumber: English cucumbers are sometimes referred to as hothouse cucumbers. They have thin skin, are nearly seedless, and have a mild flavor.
- European Cucumbers: These are very similar to English cucumbers – long, thin-skinned, and mild in flavor. They’re often found shrink-wrapped at the grocery store to prevent loss of moisture.
- Traditional Cucumbers: A broad category that includes many types of cucumbers sold at farmers markets and grocery stores. These can vary widely in taste, size, and color but generally have thicker skin and larger seeds than English cucumbers.
Taste & Appearance
English cucumbers stand out with their long, slender shape and dark green skin.
They’re usually shrink-wrapped in plastic to maintain freshness since they lack the protective wax coating common on traditional cucumbers.
That’s a good thing! You don’t want that wax on your cucumbers!
If you prefer a cucumber with a mild, almost sweet flavor without any hint of bitterness, then these cucumbers are for you! The absence of large seeds extracts flavor from these cucumbers making them less watery than other types of cucumbers.
15 Health Benefits of English Cucumbers
Take a look at the impressive health benefits of these cucumbers (really cucumbers in general).
Hydration
English cucumbers, like other types of cucumbers, are mostly made up of water. This makes them a great choice for staying hydrated, especially on hot days.
Low in Calories
If you’re watching your calorie intake, they are a good option. Cucumbers are low in calories and can be included in any calorie diet.
Digestive Health
The high water content and dietary fiber found in cucumbers can help with digestion by preventing constipation and maintaining a healthy gut.
Vitamin K
English cucumbers are a good source of vitamin K, which is essential for bone health. A single cucumber can provide about 19% of the daily values for this nutrient.
Antioxidants
English cucumbers contain several antioxidants, including vitamin C and beta-carotene. Antioxidants help protect your body from damage by harmful substances called free radicals.
Skin Health
Thanks to their hydration properties and the presence of certain vitamins and minerals, cucumbers can contribute to healthy skin when eaten regularly.
Heart Health
English cucumbers contain potassium, which can help lower blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart disease.
Bone Health
The vitamin K in cucumbers plays a crucial role in bone health, helping to increase bone density and reduce the risk of fractures.
Weight Loss
Due to their low calorie content and high water content, English cucumbers can help you feel full without adding many calories to your diet, supporting weight loss efforts.
Eye Health
The antioxidants present in cucumbers could help protect your eyes from cataracts and macular degeneration.
Blood Sugar Control
Some studies suggest that cucumbers could help regulate blood sugar levels, making them a beneficial addition to the diet for people with diabetes.
Dental Health
The water content in cucumbers can stimulate saliva production, which helps to keep your mouth clean and reduce bad breath.
Cancer Prevention
Some research suggests that the cucurbitacins and lignans found in cucumbers could potentially help to prevent certain types of cancer.
Great for Detox
Cucumbers are often used in detox diets because of their high water content and the presence of certain nutrients that can help cleanse the body.
How to Select Good Cucumbers
When shopping for cucumbers at a grocery store or farmers markets, look for those with firm skin without any soft spots. Choosing organic cucumbers are always a good choice when available.
Ways to Eat
The thin, edible skin of English cucumbers makes them easy to consume without peeling. Here are some ways to enjoy eating them:
- Cucumber Water: For a refreshing twist on regular water, add some slices of English cucumber to your infused water.
- Use with a Dip: I love cucumbers dipped into tzatziki sauce. Super refreshing!
- Cucumber Salads: English cucumbers, known for their thin skin and sweet flavor, make a refreshing addition to salads. Slice them thinly, add your favorite dressing or vinaigrette, and enjoy a crisp, hydrating side dish.
- Snacks on the Go: Next time you’re at the grocery store, pick up some English cucumbers. They are great for snacking. They can be eaten raw and whole or sliced into sticks.
- Pickling: Even though they’re often labeled as seedless cucumbers, English cucumbers do contain tiny seeds which make them ideal for pickling. Their thin skin extracts flavor well, resulting in delicious homemade pickles.
- Cold Soups: On hot summer days, a chilled cucumber soup can be very refreshing. The mild flavor of English cucumbers pairs well with herbs like dill or mint.
- Juicing: If you’re looking to incorporate more green into your daily values, try juicing an English cucumber. It adds a fresh taste without overpowering other ingredients.
How to Store
Wrap your cucumber in a paper towel to absorb any excess water and then place it in plastic wrap before storing it in the refrigerator. This way, it stays fresh for longer.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re making a salad or just need a quick snack, these mild cucumbers are sure to satisfy your cravings!
