West Indian Gherkin

West Indian Gherkin

West Indian Gherkin is a vine that is indigenous to Africa, but has become naturalized in the New World, and is cultivated in many places.  It is similar and related to the common cucumber

The West Indian gherkin, or Burr gherkin, must be picked at 1.5 inches (4 cm) long or less because if it is any larger, it will usually have an unpleasant and bitter taste.  Some people like to add horseradish root to the Burr gherkin for extra crispness. However, gherkins are generally crisper than dill pickles.