As summer comes to a close, squash once again makes its grand appearance at the farmer’s market. And, if you ask me, it’s never too early to get back into squash season.
Sweet, hearty winter squashes are my favorite because they’re so versatile – they’re great in soups, hashes, and especially curries. Even better, they’re easy to prepare simply by roasting.
For this recipe, I used a buttercup squash. This is a kind of winter squash originating from South America that is deep orange or green on the outside and yellow-orange on the inside – much like an acorn squash, only a tad larger and shaped with a flat bottom. When roasted, the skin of buttercup squash becomes tender enough to eat. In fact, I highly recommend it. It adds a subtle, earthy flavor as well as an extra boost in both vitamins and fiber.
A generous dash of curry powder and a sprinkling of brown sugar will have you dreaming of fall with this delicious appetizer or as part of a hearty vegetarian spread.
Perfectly seasoned with a warm curry and a touch of sweet brown sugar, this appetizer has layer upon layer of flavor.
1 buttercup squash
3 tablespoons melted coconut oil (you may need more or less, depending on the size of your squash)
2 teaspoons curry powder (to taste)
1 teaspoon brown sugar (to taste)
salt and pepper (to taste)
Preheat oven to 400° F. Line a baking sheet with foil.
Scrub the outside of the buttercup squash. With a large, sharp knife, carefully cut through the squash from the top down. (It helps to rock the knife back and forth as you apply firm pressure). Scoop out the seeds from the center of the squash with a spoon.
Lay the squash halves skin-side up and slice it into wedges.
Place squash on a foil-lined baking sheet and drizzle them with melted coconut oil, salt, pepper and curry and dust with brown sugar. Place a small amount of curry and brown sugar on the side for later.
Place in oven for 15 minutes. Gently turn wedges over, sprinkling with extra curry powder and brown sugar. Return to oven for 10-15 minutes.
Let cool and serve. Great garnished with an aged cheese, but also delicious as is!
** recipe adapted from the Grapevine
Tags: brown sugar, buttercup squash, coconut oil, curry powder, salt & pepper
