Butternut squash is a delicious and nutritious vegetable that can be cooked in a variety of ways. While many people prefer to roast or bake butternut squash in the oven, it can also be cooked on the stovetop. In this article, we will explore the different methods for cooking butternut squash on the stove, including boiling, steaming, sautéing, and more.
Benefits of Cooking Butternut Squash on the Stove
Cooking butternut squash on the stove has several benefits. For one, it is a quick and easy way to prepare this vegetable. Unlike roasting or baking, which can take up to an hour, stovetop cooking methods can have your butternut squash ready in as little as 10-15 minutes. Additionally, stovetop cooking allows for more control over the cooking process, making it easier to achieve the perfect texture and flavor.
Choosing the Right Butternut Squash
Before we dive into the different stovetop cooking methods, it’s essential to choose the right butternut squash. Look for a squash that is heavy for its size and has a hard, smooth skin. Avoid squashes with soft spots or bruises, as these can be signs of decay. You can also choose between different varieties of butternut squash, such as ‘Waltham’ or ‘Hubbard’, each with its unique flavor and texture.
Boiling Butternut Squash on the Stove
Boiling is one of the simplest ways to cook butternut squash on the stove. To boil butternut squash, follow these steps:
- Peel and chop the butternut squash into 1-inch cubes.
- Place the squash cubes in a large pot and add enough water to cover them.
- Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Cook the squash for 10-15 minutes, or until it is tender when pierced with a fork.
Adding Flavor to Boiled Butternut Squash
While boiled butternut squash can be delicious on its own, you can also add flavor to it by adding aromatics to the pot. Some options include:
- Onion: Slice an onion and add it to the pot with the squash.
- Garlic: Mince a few cloves of garlic and add them to the pot.
- Herbs: Add a few sprigs of fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, to the pot.
Steaming Butternut Squash on the Stove
Steaming is another healthy way to cook butternut squash on the stove. To steam butternut squash, follow these steps:
- Peel and chop the butternut squash into 1-inch cubes.
- Place the squash cubes in a steamer basket.
- Place the steamer basket over a pot of boiling water.
- Cover the pot with a lid and steam the squash for 10-15 minutes, or until it is tender when pierced with a fork.
Benefits of Steaming Butternut Squash
Steaming butternut squash has several benefits. For one, it helps retain the squash’s nutrients, as it doesn’t require submerging the squash in water. Additionally, steaming helps preserve the squash’s color and texture, making it a great way to cook butternut squash for salads or other dishes where presentation matters.
Sautéing Butternut Squash on the Stove
Sautéing is a great way to add flavor to butternut squash while cooking it on the stove. To sauté butternut squash, follow these steps:
- Peel and chop the butternut squash into 1-inch cubes.
- Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the squash cubes to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender and lightly browned.
Adding Flavor to Sautéed Butternut Squash
While sautéed butternut squash can be delicious on its own, you can also add flavor to it by adding aromatics to the skillet. Some options include:
- Onion: Slice an onion and add it to the skillet with the squash.
- Garlic: Mince a few cloves of garlic and add them to the skillet.
- Spices: Add a pinch of cumin or paprika to the skillet for extra flavor.
Puréeing Butternut Squash on the Stove
Puréeing butternut squash is a great way to make a delicious and comforting soup. To purée butternut squash on the stove, follow these steps:
- Peel and chop the butternut squash into 1-inch cubes.
- Place the squash cubes in a large pot and add enough water to cover them.
- Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Cook the squash for 10-15 minutes, or until it is tender when pierced with a fork.
- Use an immersion blender to purée the squash until smooth.
Adding Creaminess to Puréed Butternut Squash
While puréed butternut squash can be delicious on its own, you can also add creaminess to it by adding a splash of milk or cream. Some options include:
- Heavy cream: Add a splash of heavy cream to the puréed squash for a rich and creamy texture.
- Coconut milk: Add a splash of coconut milk to the puréed squash for a creamy and dairy-free texture.
Conclusion
Cooking butternut squash on the stove is a quick and easy way to prepare this delicious and nutritious vegetable. Whether you prefer to boil, steam, sauté, or purée your butternut squash, there are many ways to cook it on the stovetop. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this article, you can create a variety of tasty and healthy dishes using butternut squash.
What are the benefits of cooking butternut squash on the stove?
Cooking butternut squash on the stove is a great way to prepare this nutritious vegetable. One of the main benefits is that it allows for quick and even cooking, which helps to preserve the squash’s natural sweetness and texture. Additionally, stovetop cooking gives you more control over the cooking process, allowing you to adjust the heat and cooking time to your liking.
Stovetop cooking also makes it easy to add aromatics and spices to the squash, which can enhance its flavor and aroma. Furthermore, cooking butternut squash on the stove is a relatively low-maintenance process, requiring minimal equipment and cleanup. Overall, stovetop cooking is a convenient and flavorful way to prepare butternut squash.
How do I choose the right butternut squash for stovetop cooking?
When selecting a butternut squash for stovetop cooking, look for one that is firm and heavy for its size. A good squash should have a hard, smooth skin that is free of soft spots or bruises. You should also choose a squash that is the right size for your needs – smaller squashes are best for stovetop cooking, as they cook more quickly and evenly.
In terms of variety, look for a squash that is specifically labeled as “cooking” or “culinary” butternut squash. These varieties tend to have a sweeter, nuttier flavor and a smoother texture that is well-suited to stovetop cooking. Avoid squashes that are labeled as “ornamental” or “decorative,” as these may be more bitter and less palatable.
How do I peel and chop butternut squash for stovetop cooking?
To peel and chop butternut squash for stovetop cooking, start by cutting off the stem end of the squash. Then, use a vegetable peeler to remove the skin, starting at the top of the squash and working your way down. Once the skin is removed, use a sharp knife to chop the squash into the desired shape and size.
For stovetop cooking, it’s best to chop the squash into small, uniform pieces that will cook quickly and evenly. You can chop the squash into cubes, slices, or even grate it, depending on the recipe and desired texture. Be sure to remove any seeds or pulp from the squash before chopping, as these can be bitter and unpleasant to eat.
What is the best way to cook butternut squash on the stove?
The best way to cook butternut squash on the stove is to sauté it in a little bit of oil or butter until it’s tender and lightly browned. To do this, heat a tablespoon or two of oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped squash to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s tender and lightly browned.
You can also add aromatics like onions, garlic, and ginger to the skillet with the squash for added flavor. Additionally, you can add a splash of liquid, such as chicken or vegetable broth, to the skillet to help the squash cook more quickly and evenly. Be sure to stir the squash frequently as it cooks to prevent burning or scorching.
How long does it take to cook butternut squash on the stove?
The cooking time for butternut squash on the stove will depend on the size and shape of the squash, as well as the heat level and cooking method. Generally, chopped butternut squash will take around 10-15 minutes to cook on the stove, while larger pieces may take up to 30 minutes.
It’s best to check the squash frequently as it cooks to determine when it’s done. The squash is cooked when it’s tender and easily pierced with a fork. You can also test the squash by cutting into it – if it’s cooked through, it should be soft and creamy on the inside.
Can I cook butternut squash on the stove with the skin on?
Yes, you can cook butternut squash on the stove with the skin on, but it’s not always the best option. Cooking the squash with the skin on can help to retain its moisture and flavor, but it can also make the squash more difficult to chop and serve.
If you do choose to cook the squash with the skin on, be sure to pierce the skin in several places with a fork to allow steam to escape. This will help to prevent the squash from bursting or exploding as it cooks. You can also cook the squash with the skin on and then remove the skin after it’s cooked, which can make it easier to serve and eat.
How do I store cooked butternut squash?
Cooked butternut squash can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for up to six months. To store cooked squash in the refrigerator, let it cool to room temperature and then transfer it to an airtight container. Be sure to press plastic wrap or wax paper directly onto the surface of the squash to prevent it from drying out.
To freeze cooked squash, let it cool to room temperature and then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Be sure to press out as much air as possible from the container or bag before sealing to prevent freezer burn. Frozen squash can be thawed and reheated as needed, making it a convenient option for meal prep and planning.