How to Cook Butternut Squash
The consumption of squash dates back to about 3000 BC. It was commonly consumed by Native Americans but some historians disagree on the belief that it originated in America. It wasn’t heavily consumed as a side dish until about the 19th century when it became popular in both Europe and the United States. Many people don’t like squash because it has a unique texture and flavor. An important thing to consider when learning how to cook butternut squash, is that cooking it too long can easily ruin the flavor and texture. Even some well known restaurants are known for not having squash on the menu because of the quirkiness of the vegetable.
Butternut squash is the most popular of the squash family and most commonly consumed during the autumn season at such occasions as Thanksgiving. Butternut squash is planted during the summer but should not be picked before it reaches its full color, which tends to be tan to very light orange. The butternut squash is known for its sweet flavor and is commonly used in soups and baked goods However, it can also be combined with sweet potato and pumpkin dishes or presented as its own side dish. One of the reasons that butternut squash is so popular is because it can be used in a variety of applications. It will taste good roasted, baked and steamed.
The next passages we will introduce two easy to make butternut squash recipes.
Baked Squash and Brown Sugar
Serves 6
You should notice some similarities between the two butternut squash recipes. Both will require butter and brown sugar.
Here are the ingredients you will need for this recipe:
- 1 large butternut squash
- 2 table spoons butter
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup brown sugar
Step 1:
Preheat the oven to 400° before. Cut the squash in half lengthwise. Place it on a large baking sheet with the outer side down and bake until the inside is tender. Once it is done, remove and let stand for 5 minutes. Take a spoon and scoop out the inside before placing it in a large bowl.
Step 2:
Melt the butter in a medium sauce pan and add the nutmeg and brown sugar. Mix that with the squash in the mixing bowl. Add the chicken broth. Mash the mixture up and make sure it is well mixed into a fine puree. Place it back in the saucepan and heat it over medium heat until warm.
This next recipe can be used as a type of appetizer at a party. It shows why butternut squash is considered versatile.
Butternut Squash Bites
Serves 6+
How to Cook Butternut Squash
- 1 large butternut squash
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Step 1:
Preheat the oven to 375°. Cut the butternut squash right down the middle, lengthwise with a knife. Scoop out small bite sized pieces of the squash with a spoon (use a teaspoon if one is available). Try to leave as little squash as you can.
Step 2:
Spread the pieces on a baking sheet and cover them with brown sugar and salt. Melt the butter and pour it over the top of the squash. Place a sheet of aluminum foil over them and bake for 35 minutes.
Baked Butternut Squash and Brown Sugar Halves
Serves 6+
Here are the ingredients for this recipe:
- 3 medium to butternut squash (can be more depending on how many people are eating)
- ¼ cup brown sugar (optional)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
Step 1:
Preheat the oven to 350°. Wash the squash well to remove any dirt and grime. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Place the squash, cut side up, on a baking sheet.
Step 2:
Combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, butter and cloves in a mixing bowl. Put some of the mixture into the squash halves. Cover them with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes.
Step 3:
Stir the brown sugar mixture and bake for another 15 minutes uncovered. You can sprinkle it with additional brown sugar and cloves for more flavor. Let it stand for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.