Braised Winter Squash Recipes

WINTER SQUASH BRAISED IN CIDER

Steps:

• Peel squash, halve lengthwise, and remove seeds with spoon. If using delicata, slice into half-moons 1/2-inch thick; if using butternut, dice into 1/2-inch chunks.
• Melt butter in a 12-inch skillet over low heat until foamy. Add rosemary, and cook over medium heat to flavor butter, stirring frequently, about 2 minutes. Add squash, cider, and 1 teaspoon salt. If squash is not covered by cider, add water to cover.
• Bring to a simmer, and cook until squash is tender, about 30 to 40 minutes. Remove squash to a plate. Cook cider mixture until it has reduced to a glaze, stirring frequently, 5 to 10 minutes. Add squash back to skillet. Cook until just warmed through. Sprinkle with vinegar, and season with salt and pepper. Transfer to warm serving bowl, and serve immediately.

BRAISED BUTTERNUT SQUASH IN SPICED COCONUT GRAVY

Steps:

• Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Cook squash, a cut side down, until browned underneath, about 3 minutes. Turn onto other cut sides and cook, undisturbed, until browned, about 3 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
• Reduce heat to medium-low and add shallots, garlic, and ginger to same skillet. Cook, stirring often, until translucent and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Stir in coconut milk, salt, chile powder, cayenne, and turmeric. Increase heat to medium-high and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low; return squash to skillet and spoon some sauce over. Cover and cook until squash is fork-tender, 20-25 minutes.
• Meanwhile, toast almonds in a dry small skillet over medium heat, tossing often, until golden brown, about 4 minutes. Transfer to a plate and let cool.
• Remove squash from heat, uncover, and squeeze lime juice over. (If oil starts to separate from sauce while squash sits, gently whisk to emulsify before serving.) Top with almonds and cilantro. Serve with rice if desired.