Best Chayote Recipe: Quick Indian-Style Stir-Fry with Flavorful Spices

Chayote, also known as “chow chow” in South India or “vegetable pear” in some parts of the world, is one of the most underused vegetables in many kitchens. Mild in flavor, tender in texture, and packed with nutrition, chayote blends easily with spices and absorbs seasoning beautifully. If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious way to include this squash-like vegetable in your meals, this stir-fried chayote recipe is your perfect entry point.

What is Chayote?

Chayote is a green, wrinkled vegetable from the gourd family. Native to Mexico and Central America, it is widely used in Latin American, Indian, and Southeast Asian cooking. Its flesh is slightly crisp when raw and turns tender when cooked. The flavor is neutral, like a mix between a cucumber and a summer squash.

Rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, chayote is also low in calories, making it a great choice for light lunches, side dishes, and even keto-friendly meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This simple stir-fry uses basic ingredients found in most Indian kitchens. You can adjust spices based on your taste.

• 2 medium chayotes, peeled and finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon oil (coconut or mustard oil works great)
• ½ teaspoon mustard seeds
• ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 sprig curry leaves
• 1 green chili, slit (optional for heat)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 2 tablespoons grated coconut (fresh or frozen)
• Water for sprinkling

Optional: pinch of hing (asafoetida), squeeze of lemon juice, chopped coriander leaves for garnish

How to Cook Chayote Stir-Fry

Step 1: Prep the chayote
Peel the chayote and cut it into small cubes. Remove the seed if it feels hard. Young chayote can be used with the seed. Rinse and set aside.

Step 2: Temper the spices
Heat oil in a kadai or non-stick pan. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then add cumin seeds, green chili, and curry leaves. If using hing, add a pinch here. Stir for a few seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Add onions and sauté
Add the chopped onions and sauté on medium heat until they turn soft and slightly golden. This adds a sweet depth to the dish.

Step 4: Cook the chayote
Add turmeric powder and salt. Mix well. Toss in the chopped chayote and stir to coat evenly with the spices and onions. Sprinkle a tablespoon or two of water, cover the pan, and cook on low to medium heat for about 10 to 12 minutes.

Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The chayote should become tender but still hold shape.

Step 5: Add coconut and finish
Once cooked, add grated coconut and stir well. Cook uncovered for 1 to 2 more minutes so any remaining moisture evaporates. Turn off the heat and garnish with fresh coriander or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Serve hot with steamed rice, sambar, rasam, or rotis.

Why You Should Cook with Chayote

• Digestive friendly: High fiber, low starch
• Quick to cook: Ready in under 20 minutes
• Versatile: Can be used in curries, salads, or stews
• Mild flavor: Works well with bold spices or light seasoning
• Budget-friendly: Easily available and affordable

Other Ways to Use Chayote

• Chayote curry: Simmer in coconut milk with tamarind and spices
• Stuffed chayote boats: Bake with a spicy filling of onions, breadcrumbs, and cheese
• Chayote kootu: Cook with moong dal and coconut paste for a Tamil-style dish
• Chayote salad: Grated raw chayote with lime juice, salt, and roasted peanuts
• Chayote soup: Blend cooked chayote with garlic, onions, and broth

Tips to Get It Right Every Time

• Don’t overcook. Chayote should be soft but not mushy
• Use fresh grated coconut for the best flavor, but frozen also works
• If using older chayotes, always remove the seed
• A pinch of jaggery can be added for a mild sweet contrast
• For extra protein, add cooked chana dal or soaked moong dal to the fry

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 120
• Protein: 2g
• Carbs: 10g
• Fiber: 4g
• Fat: 7g

This dish is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and very light on the stomach.

Best Time to Serve Chayote Fry

This recipe is perfect for lunchboxes, quick weeknight dinners, or as a side dish with South Indian meals. It’s also ideal during festivals or when you want to keep your meal satvik and light.

Final Thoughts

Chayote stir-fry is one of those rare recipes that checks every box. It’s easy to cook, healthy, flavorful, and fits into any Indian meal without effort. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this humble vegetable can surprise you when cooked right.