The Mirliton.

Lumpy, bumpy and strange looking, the mirliton is a subtropical member of the squash family. This mild, delicious and versatile vegetable originated in Mexico and is also known as a chayote squash or an alligator pear. It can be stuffed, fried, pickled and used in salads.

Chef John Folse has a mouth watering recipe for Crabmeat and Shrimp Stuffed Mirliton.

Here's an interesting recipe for Mirliton Ratatouille from Chuck at The Gumbo Pages.

If you want to make mirliton pickles, here are a couple of good looking recipes.

This recipe for Mirliton, Shrimp and Tasso Casserole from Commander's Palace chef, Jamie Shannon, looks fabulous!

New Orleans' Bywater neighborhood hosts a festival every autumn celebrating the humble mirliton. The festival includes live music, arts and crafts for the kids and of course, lots and lots of great food!

Give the mirliton a try sometime.