The butternut squash, a member of the gourd family, boasts a long and fascinating history. Evidence suggests it was enjoyed in Mexico as early as 5500 BC! Unlike its summer squash cousins, butternut squash is a winter squash, known for its thick, hard skin and ability to be stored for extended periods.
These vibrantly colored vegetables, ranging from tan to yellow on the outside and orange within, typically measure 8-12 inches long and 3-5 inches wide, with a weight of up to 3 pounds. Unlike the round pumpkin used for Jack-o’-Lanterns, butternut squash has a more elongated shape. They are a welcome sight in stores from fall through winter.
Butternut squash’s thicker skin makes it ideal for long-term storage. Uncut squash can last for a month in a cool, dry place. Once cut, simply wrap the pieces in plastic and store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Butternut squash is a nutritional powerhouse, offering protein, carbohydrates, riboflavin, iron, and vitamins A and C.
Now, let’s get cooking! Prepare your butternut squash by rinsing it thoroughly and cutting it lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds and stringy fibers. These seeds can be roasted for a delicious and nutritious snack! You can choose to peel the skin before cooking, or leave it on for added texture and fiber.
The beauty of butternut squash lies in its versatility. It can be flavored with a wide variety of herbs and spices, including allspice, anise seed, brown sugar, butter, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, cumin, ginger, mace, nutmeg, paprika, sage, savory, tarragon, thyme, and turmeric.
The cooking method you choose depends on your desired outcome. Here’s a guide to some popular techniques:
- Frying: Cook cubed squash in oil over medium heat until tender when pierced with a fork. This method is a good option if you’re looking for a quick way to cook the squash and want it to have a slightly crispy exterior.
- Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cubed or halved squash with olive oil and seasonings, then bake uncovered for 30-45 minutes, or until tender and golden brown. Baking is a great way to achieve caramelized edges and a slightly sweet flavor.
- Steaming: Cube the squash and steam on high for 8-10 minutes, or until tender. Steaming is a gentle cooking method that helps preserve the vibrant color and nutrients of the squash. It’s a good option if you’re looking for a lighter preparation.
- Roasting: Similar to baking, toss cubed squash with olive oil and seasonings, then roast on a baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 30-45 minutes, or until tender and caramelized. Roasting is similar to baking but often at slightly higher temperatures, which can bring out a deeper, nuttier flavor.
- Boiling: Cube the squash and boil in salted water for 8-10 minutes, or until tender. Boiling is the fastest cooking method, but it can leach out some nutrients. It’s a good option if you’re planning on mashing the squash or using it in a soup.
- Microwaving: Cube the squash and place in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of water. Cover and microwave on high for 4-5 minutes at a time, stirring occasionally, until tender. Microwaving is another quick option, but it can result in uneven cooking.
With its delicious taste, impressive nutritional profile, and endless cooking possibilities, butternut squash is a wonderful addition to any kitchen. Here are some recipe ideas to get you started:
- Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: A creamy and comforting soup perfect for a chilly day. Simply roast the squash cubes with your favorite herbs and spices, then blend them with vegetable broth and cream.
- Butternut Squash Curry: A flavorful and healthy curry dish. Saute onions and spices, then add cubed squash and coconut milk. Simmer until the squash is tender, and serve over rice.
- Stuffed Butternut Squash: A visually impressive and satisfying main course. Roast halved butternut squash, then fill them with a mixture of cooked rice, vegetables, and your favorite protein.
- Butternut Squash Noodles: A delicious and healthy alternative to pasta noodles. Use a spiralizer to create long, thin strands of squash, then saute them with garlic and olive oil or use them in your favorite pasta dish.
So grab one (or a few!) butternut squash and get creative! You’ll be surprised by the variety of delicious dishes you can create with this versatile winter squash.
