Make the most of winter squash! Here are answers to common questions about how to prepare this seasonal delight.
Can I eat the field pumpkin I bought to make a jack-o-lantern?
- Yes, but it’s not recommended. Field pumpkins grown for jack-o-lanterns tend to have very little flavour and watery stringy flesh.
Can I eat the seeds of my squash?
- You bet! Roasted squash seeds are a delicious and healthy treat. Some types of squash, like the kakai and lady godiva pumpkin, even have green hull-less seeds that are perfect for roasting.
- Scoop the seeds out of the squash and roughly separate them from the pulp. (Washing and drying the seeds is an optional next step). In a bowl, toss the seeds with a little vegetable oil and seasoning. The seasoning can be sweet or savoury, you choose. Place the seeds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 300°F. Stir the roasting seeds every 10 minutes or so for even cooking. Roast until the seeds begin to brown and get crisp. Remove from oven and let cool on countertop.
Do I have to peel that hard skin off?
- No. Most types of winter squash are somewhat difficult to peel before being cooked.
- You can bake or microwave the whole squash (use a fork to pierce the skin a few times to allow the steam to escape), to make cutting and peeling easier. You can also cut the squash in half, scoop out the seeds, and then bake.
- When cutting an uncooked squash with a hard peel use a sharp chef’s knife and hold the squash firmly on a stable cutting board (to prevent the knife from slipping, or the squash from rolling).
What types of cooking methods and recipes work well with winter squash?
- Baked or roasted squash is simple and sets the stage for squash puree or mash.
- Roasted slices of squash make an attractive side dish. Roasted and stuffed halves of squash can be elegant.
- Mashed squash can replace mashed potatoes and can get kids eating squash.
- Plain pureed squash can be used in place of bananas or apple sauce in muffins or pancakes. It also makes great custard.
- Peeled and diced or sliced squash can be used in soups, casseroles, curries, frittatas and more.
Give these recipes a try:
Reference: www.healthyfamiliesbc.ca