What is Butternut Squash?

Butternut squash is one of the most popular and modern varieties. Butternuts are known for their long neck and bowling pin or bell-like shape. Their smooth skin is yellow  and hardend when matured. The skin is also edible when cooked. The long neck of the Butternut squash has a solid orange flesh that makes it easy for peeling and slicing. The bulbous part contains a petite seed which is surrounded by a layer of orange flesh.

When cooked, the flesh of the Butternut is tender and offers a mild squash flavour with sweet and nutty nuances.

Seasons/Availability

The Butternut squash is available all year-round.

Facts

The Butternut is botanically part of the neck group of squashes. The Butternut we know today is a relatively new variety which is the result of years of plant breeding to get the perfect and popular crookneck squash.

Nutritional value

Butternut squash provides Vitamins A, C and E, manganese, potassium, soluble fibre and magnesium. Deep orange colored squashes such as Butternuts are also known to be rich in beta carotene.

Applications

The Butternut squash has a shape which makes it easy to peel and slice. The squash can be sliced into rounds, wedges, or cubes and baked, steamed, roasted and grilled. The seeds can be roasted, salted and consumed as a snack similar to pumpkin seeds. Butternut is an excellent keeper which should be stored in a cool, dry place and to ve used in a few months.