Soncoya
Fruits
Nutri-ScoreA

Soncoya

Sicana odorifera

Clinical Encyclopedia

SM
Nutri-Score & Health Summary

Soncoya provides 50 kcal, 1g of protein, 12g of carbohydrates, and 3g of fiber per 100g. With a Nutri-Score grade 'A', it is a highly recommended option for nutrient density.

Soncoya, also known as the 'scented gourd', is a tropical fruit native to South America, known for its sweet flavor and high water content. It is rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to the diet.

Also known as:
Scented gourdSoncoya melon
Scientific NameSicana odorifera
Region of OriginSouth America

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories50 kcal
Water
90%
Fiber3g
Total13.2g
Protein
1g(8%)
Fats
0.2g(2%)
Carbohydrates
12g(91%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin C10 mg (11%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Potassium150 mg (4%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

Rich in Vitamin C, soncoya helps boost the immune system and promotes skin health.
High water content aids in hydration and supports digestive health.
Contains dietary fiber which can help regulate blood sugar levels and improve gut health.
Low in calories, making it an excellent choice for weight management.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Individuals with allergies to melons or cucumbers may experience allergic reactions.
!Excessive consumption may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort due to high fiber content.

How to Prepare & Consume

Soncoya can be eaten raw, added to salads, or blended into smoothies. It is best enjoyed fresh to retain its nutrients.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Look for soncoya that is firm with a slight give when pressed, and has a sweet aroma. Avoid any that are overly soft or have blemishes.

How to Store

Store soncoya in a cool, dry place or refrigerate to extend its freshness. Consume within a few days for the best flavor.

Myths vs Realities

MythSoncoya is only a dessert fruit.
RealitySoncoya can be used in savory dishes, salads, and smoothies, not just desserts.
MythEating soncoya will cause weight gain.
RealitySoncoya is low in calories and high in water, making it a great option for weight management.
MythSoncoya is not nutritious.
RealitySoncoya is rich in vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, providing numerous health benefits.

Healthy Recipes

Soncoya Smoothie Bowl

A refreshing smoothie bowl packed with nutrients, featuring creamy soncoya blended with banana and topped with fresh fruits and seeds.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup ripe soncoya pulp
  • 1 medium banana
  • 1/2 cup almond milk
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds
  • 1/4 cup mixed berries
  • 1 tablespoon shredded coconut
Instructions
  1. 1. In a blender, combine soncoya pulp, banana, and almond milk until smooth.
  2. 2. Pour the smoothie into a bowl and top with chia seeds, mixed berries, and shredded coconut.
  3. 3. Serve immediately and enjoy your nutritious breakfast!

Soncoya and Quinoa Salad

A vibrant salad combining soncoya with quinoa, black beans, and a zesty lime dressing for a protein-packed meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1/2 cup soncoya diced
  • 1/2 cup canned black beans, rinsed
  • 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1/4 cup corn
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, diced soncoya, black beans, cherry tomatoes, and corn.
  2. 2. Drizzle with lime juice and season with salt and pepper.
  3. 3. Toss gently to combine and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Soncoya Stuffed Bell Peppers

Colorful bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of soncoya, brown rice, and spices, baked to perfection.

Ingredients
  • 4 bell peppers
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1 cup soncoya pulp
  • 1/2 onion chopped
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. In a skillet, sauté onion until translucent, then add soncoya, cooked rice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Stuff the mixture into halved bell peppers and bake for 25-30 minutes until peppers are tender.

Soncoya Pancakes

Fluffy and nutritious pancakes made with soncoya puree, perfect for a healthy breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1/2 cup soncoya puree
  • 1 cup almond milk
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and cinnamon.
  2. 2. In another bowl, combine soncoya puree, almond milk, and maple syrup.
  3. 3. Combine wet and dry ingredients, then cook on a non-stick skillet until bubbles form, flipping to cook the other side.

Soncoya and Spinach Soup

A creamy and nutritious soup blending soncoya with fresh spinach and herbs, perfect for a light meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups soncoya pulp
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add soncoya pulp, spinach, and vegetable broth, then bring to a boil.
  3. 3. Simmer for 15 minutes, blend until smooth, and season with salt and pepper.

Soncoya Energy Bites

No-bake energy bites made with soncoya, oats, and nut butter, perfect for a healthy snack on the go.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup soncoya puree
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup almond butter
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix soncoya puree, rolled oats, almond butter, and honey until well combined.
  2. 2. Fold in dark chocolate chips and form into bite-sized balls.
  3. 3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Soncoya and Chickpea Curry

A hearty and flavorful curry featuring soncoya and chickpeas, served with brown rice for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup soncoya pulp
  • 1 can chickpeas, drained
  • 1 onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, sauté onion and garlic until soft.
  2. 2. Add soncoya, chickpeas, curry powder, and coconut milk, then simmer for 20 minutes.
  3. 3. Season with salt and serve over brown rice.

Soncoya Chia Pudding

A creamy and nutritious chia pudding made with soncoya puree, perfect for breakfast or dessert.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup almond milk
  • 1/2 cup soncoya puree
  • 1/4 cup chia seeds
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • Fresh fruit for topping
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, whisk together almond milk, soncoya puree, chia seeds, and honey.
  2. 2. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until thickened.
  3. 3. Serve topped with fresh fruit.

Soncoya Veggie Wraps

Healthy wraps filled with soncoya, fresh veggies, and hummus, perfect for a quick lunch or snack.

Ingredients
  • 4 whole grain tortillas
  • 1 cup soncoya pulp
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers)
  • 1/2 cup hummus
  • Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Spread hummus over each tortilla, then layer with soncoya and mixed vegetables.
  2. 2. Roll tightly and slice in half.
  3. 3. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately.

Soncoya and Avocado Toast

A nutritious twist on avocado toast, featuring creamy soncoya and topped with seeds for added crunch.

Ingredients
  • 2 slices whole grain bread
  • 1/2 ripe avocado
  • 1/2 cup soncoya pulp
  • 1 tablespoon pumpkin seeds
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Toast the bread slices until golden brown.
  2. 2. Mash avocado and soncoya together, then spread on the toasted bread.
  3. 3. Top with pumpkin seeds, salt, and pepper before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is soncoya?

Soncoya is a tropical fruit known for its sweet flavor and high water content, often used in various culinary dishes.

How do you eat soncoya?

Soncoya can be eaten raw, added to salads, or blended into smoothies for a refreshing drink.

What are the health benefits of soncoya?

Soncoya is rich in Vitamin C, dietary fiber, and has a high water content, which supports hydration and digestive health.

Can soncoya be cooked?

While soncoya is typically eaten raw, it can also be cooked in certain dishes, though this may alter its flavor and texture.

Is soncoya safe for everyone to eat?

Most people can safely consume soncoya, but those with specific allergies should exercise caution.

How do you select a ripe soncoya?

Choose soncoya that is firm, slightly soft to the touch, and has a fragrant aroma.

How should soncoya be stored?

Store soncoya in a cool, dry place or in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

What is the glycemic index of soncoya?

Soncoya has a low glycemic index of 30, making it suitable for those managing blood sugar levels.