Ridge gourd, scientifically known as Luffa acutangular, is a vegetable belonging to the gourd family. It is characterized by its long, cylindrical shape with ridges running along its length. The skin is typically dark green when mature, and the flesh inside is white with soft seeds embedded in a spongy core. Ridge gourd has a mild, slightly sweet flavour and a crunchy texture when cooked properly. It is versatile in culinary use, commonly stir-fried, added to curries, soups, or pickled. Ridge gourd is rich in dietary fibber, vitamins (especially vitamin C), minerals like iron and calcium, and antioxidants. It grows well in warm climates with plenty of sunlight and is popular in Asian cuisines for its nutritional benefits and culinary versatility.
