Say goodbye to boring veggies! discover how to cook butternut squash jamaican style
What To Know
- Serve the butternut squash with a side of steamed callaloo or sautéed spinach for a complete meal.
- The sweet and earthy squash is complemented by the aromatic spices and creamy coconut milk, creating a culinary experience that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Jamaica.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
Butternut squash, a versatile and flavorful vegetable, takes on a new dimension when infused with the vibrant flavors of Jamaica. This guide will walk you through the steps to create an authentic Jamaican-style butternut squash dish that will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 1 large butternut squash
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 Scotch bonnet pepper, seeded and minced (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup coconut milk
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Squash
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Roast for 30-45 minutes, or until tender.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
- While the squash is roasting, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and Scotch bonnet pepper (if using) and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add Spices and Coconut Milk
- Sprinkle in the thyme, allspice, and cinnamon. Cook for 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
- Pour in the coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
4. Simmer the Sauce
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Add Roasted Squash
- Remove the butternut squash from the oven and scrape the flesh into the skillet.
- Stir to combine with the sauce.
6. Add Vegetable Broth
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the squash is heated through.
7. Season and Serve
- Season with additional salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as rice and peas, or grilled chicken.
Variations
- Spicy: Increase the amount of Scotch bonnet pepper to your desired spice level.
- Sweet: Add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the sauce.
- Creamy: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream for a richer flavor.
- Roasted Vegetables: Add chopped bell peppers, onions, or carrots to the skillet along with the butternut squash.
Tips
- For a more intense flavor, roast the butternut squash cut-side down.
- If you don’t have a Scotch bonnet pepper, substitute with 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper.
- Use full-fat coconut milk for the best flavor and creaminess.
- Serve the butternut squash with a side of steamed callaloo or sautéed spinach for a complete meal.
Jamaican Butternut Squash: A Taste of the Caribbean
This Jamaican-style butternut squash dish is a celebration of flavors and textures. The sweet and earthy squash is complemented by the aromatic spices and creamy coconut milk, creating a culinary experience that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Jamaica.
Questions You May Have
1. What is the best way to peel butternut squash?
Use a sharp knife to cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Then, use a vegetable peeler to remove the skin from the squash.
2. Can I use canned butternut squash?
Yes, you can use canned butternut squash in this recipe. Drain and rinse the squash before using.
3. How can I store leftover butternut squash?
Leftover butternut squash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
4. What are some other Jamaican-style dishes I can try?
- Jerk Chicken
- Curry Goat
- Ackee and Saltfish
- Callaloo Soup