Product Description

Long Opo Chinese Squash – Buy Online in the UK

Long opo squash, also known as Chinese squash or bottle gourd, is now available fresh in the UK — a versatile vegetable used in Asian, Caribbean, and Indian cooking.

What is Opo (Chinese) Squash?

Opo squash (Lagenaria siceraria) is a long, pale-green gourd widely enjoyed across Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean. It has a smooth skin and crisp white flesh with a mild, slightly sweet taste.

• Texture: Firm and tender when cooked, similar to courgette.

• Flavour: Mild, fresh, and delicate — ideal for absorbing spices and seasonings.

• Uses: A staple in soups, stir-fries, curries, and braised dishes.

In Chinese cuisine, it’s often simmered in broths with seafood or pork. In Indian cooking, it appears in curries and dals. Caribbean kitchens also prize it in stews. This humble yet gourmet gourd is prized for its versatility and digestibility.

Nutrition & Health Benefits

Like many gourds, opo squash is light, hydrating, and full of nutrients:

• Low-calorie, high-water content – refreshing and light.

• Dietary fibre – supports healthy digestion.

• Vitamin C – contributes to immune health.

• B vitamins – naturally occurring, support energy metabolism.

• Potassium – helps regulate fluid balance.

(General nutrition information; not medical advice.)

How to Prepare, Cook & Store Opo Squash

1. Choose: Look for firm, smooth-skinned squashes with no soft spots.

2. Prep: Wash, peel lightly if skin is tough, and slice into rounds or cubes.

3. Cook:

   • Stir-fry with garlic and soy sauce for a light side dish.

   • Simmer in broth for a soothing soup.

   • Add to curries for a delicate, absorbent vegetable.

4. Store: Keep uncut squash in a cool, dry place for up to 1 week. Once cut, refrigerate and use within 2–3 days.

Quick Opo Squash Recipes

• Chinese Opo Squash Soup Recipe: Simmer squash with shrimp, ginger, and a clear broth for a nourishing meal.

• Indian Opo Curry Recipe: Cook cubes of opo with onion, tomato, turmeric, and spices for a comforting vegetarian curry.

(More inspiration on our recipes page.)

Provenance & Seasonality

Our long opo squash is sourced from specialist farms in India and Southeast Asia and carefully imported for freshness.

• Season: Most abundant from spring to autumn, though grown year-round in tropical climates.

• Sustainability: Partner farms follow traditional cultivation and eco-friendly practices.

Delivery & Packaging for the UK

• Fresh dispatch 2–3 times weekly.

• Next-day UK delivery available.

• Eco-packaging to protect produce and reduce waste.

• Freshness guarantee on every opo squash order.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What does opo squash taste like?
It has a mild, slightly sweet flavour, similar to courgette or marrow.

2. How do you cook Chinese opo squash?
It can be stir-fried, simmered in soup, braised, or added to curries.

3. Do you need to peel opo squash?
The skin is edible but may be tough; peeling is recommended for larger or older squashes.

4. Is opo squash healthy?
Yes, it’s low-calorie, hydrating, and a good source of fibre and vitamins.

5. How long does opo squash last?
Uncut, it keeps for about 1 week in a cool place. Once cut, refrigerate and use within 2–3 days.

6. Where do your opo squashes come from?
We source from trusted farms in India and Southeast Asia.

7. Can you freeze opo squash?
Yes, cut squash can be blanched and frozen for later use in soups or stews.

8. Is opo squash the same as bottle gourd?
Yes, opo squash is also called bottle gourd, calabash, or lauki in different regions.

Add Long Opo Squash to Your Basket

Mild, versatile, and nourishing, opo squash is a must-have for soups, curries, and stews. Perfect for adventurous home cooks and authentic Asian or Caribbean recipes.

Add to cart now and buy long opo squash in the UK — delivered fresh to your kitchen.

Additional Information