Acorn squash

Acorn Squash

A ripe acorn squash
Food energy (per serving)	56 per 100g kcal
Cookbook: Acorn Squash   Media: Acorn Squash

Acorn squash, also known as pepper squash or Des Moines squash, is a winter squash with distinctive longitudinal ridges and sweet, yellow-orange flesh. Native to North America, it is a member of the species Cucurbita pepo and is typically small, dark green or yellow in color. This squash is named for its acorn-like shape, featuring a hard rind and ribbed exterior.

Description

Acorn squash weighs from 1 to 2 pounds and has a shape similar to that of an acorn. The skin is thick and hard, which allows it to be stored for extended periods, making it a staple winter squash. It has a sweet, nutty flavor reminiscent of pumpkin. The flesh is firmer and the squash is often baked, but can also be microwaved, sautéed, or steamed.

History

Acorn squash is believed to have originated in North and Central America, where squash has been cultivated for over 10,000 years. The native peoples valued squashes for their ability to be stored through the winter, providing a valuable food source during months when fresh produce was scarce.

Culinary Uses

File:Stuffed Acorn Squash.jpg

Stuffed acorn squash

Acorn squash is versatile in the kitchen, lending itself well to both sweet and savory dishes. It can be roasted, baked, steamed, sautéed, or microwaved. Common preparations include stuffing the squash with a mixture of grains, meats, and spices; slicing it into pieces for roasting; or puréeing the cooked flesh for use in soups and sauces. Due to its naturally sweet flavor, it is often seasoned with nutmeg, cinnamon, or brown sugar when served as a dessert or side dish.

Nutritional Value

Acorn squash is rich in dietary fiber, vitamins A, C, and B, magnesium, potassium, and antioxidants. It is low in calories, making it a healthy addition to any diet. Its high fiber content helps promote digestive health, while the antioxidants and vitamins support the immune system.

Cultivation

The squash is grown on trailing vines and requires a long growing season. It is harvested in the late summer through fall, before the first frost. Once harvested, it can be stored in a cool, dry place for several weeks.

Varieties

There are several varieties of acorn squash, differing primarily in skin color. The most common is dark green, but there are also golden-yellow and white varieties. Each variety has a similar flavor and texture.

See Also

• Winter squash
• Cucurbita
• Pumpkin
• Butternut squash

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