Description of this recipe: These Candied Acorn Squash Slices are a delightful and surprisingly easy side dish that transforms humble acorn squash into a sweet and savory treat. The natural sweetness of the squash is enhanced by a buttery brown sugar glaze, creating a caramelized crust that is both visually appealing and incredibly delicious. Perfect for holiday gatherings, weeknight dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress with minimal effort.
Why you will love this recipe: You’ll adore this recipe for its simplicity and the exquisite flavor combination it delivers. It’s a fantastic way to introduce squash to picky eaters, as the candy-like coating makes it irresistibly appealing. The recipe is also incredibly versatile – you can adjust the level of sweetness to your liking or add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth. Plus, it’s a relatively healthy side dish compared to many other sugary options, as it utilizes the natural sweetness of the squash and contains beneficial nutrients. The aroma that fills your kitchen while these slices bake is an added bonus! The ease of preparation and minimal cleanup also makes this a winner in my book.
Introduction
Acorn squash, often overlooked, is a nutritional powerhouse packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. This vibrant winter squash offers a subtle sweetness that makes it a perfect canvas for both savory and sweet preparations. In this recipe, we’ll take advantage of its natural sweetness by caramelizing it with a buttery brown sugar glaze. The result is a dish that’s both sophisticated and comforting, showcasing the versatility of seasonal produce.
Growing up, my grandmother always had acorn squash on the Thanksgiving table. However, it was often boiled or simply baked, which, while healthy, wasn’t always the most exciting. I remember feeling a slight disappointment, wishing for something more flavorful. Years later, inspired by the idea of candied yams, I decided to experiment with a similar concept using acorn squash. The first iteration was good, but needed tweaking. I found that partially baking the squash first ensured a tender, creamy interior, while the subsequent caramelization created a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
This Candied Acorn Squash Slices recipe is a testament to the fact that simple ingredients and techniques can yield extraordinary results. It’s a dish that is sure to become a family favorite, gracing your holiday table and adding a touch of sweetness to your everyday meals. And, it’s a great way to get your kids eating more vegetables!
Ingredients:
- 2 medium acorn squash: Choose squash that are heavy for their size, indicating they are dense and full of flavor. Avoid squash with blemishes or soft spots. The skin should be dull and hard to the touch.
- 2/3 cup packed brown sugar: Brown sugar adds a deep molasses flavor that complements the sweetness of the squash. You can use light or dark brown sugar, depending on your preference. Dark brown sugar will impart a richer, more intense flavor. Be sure to pack the brown sugar when measuring to ensure accuracy.
- 1/2 cup butter, softened: Softened butter is essential for creating a smooth and easily spreadable glaze. Make sure the butter is at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before starting the recipe. You can also use unsalted or salted butter, adjusting the seasoning accordingly. If using salted butter, you might want to slightly reduce the amount of salt you add, or omit it entirely.
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature allows the squash to cook through evenly without browning too quickly. Lower temperatures could also result in mushy, not well caramelized, squash.
Step 2: Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise. Use a sharp, sturdy knife and exercise caution while cutting through the hard skin. Place the squash on a cutting board, stem-side down, and carefully slice it in half from stem to blossom end.
Step 3: Remove and discard the seeds and stringy pulp from the center of each squash half. A spoon or ice cream scoop works well for this task. Make sure to remove all the stringy bits, as they can become tough and unpleasant to eat.
Step 4: Cut each squash half crosswise into 1/2-inch slices. Ensure the slices are of uniform thickness for even cooking. Discard the very ends of each squash half, as they tend to be less tender and can become overly caramelized.
Step 5: Arrange the squash slices in a shallow baking pan. A 9×13 inch baking dish works well. You want to avoid overcrowding the pan so the squash can cook evenly. If needed, use two baking dishes.
Step 6: Cover the baking pan tightly with aluminum foil. This creates a steamy environment that helps the squash cook through quickly and evenly.
Step 7: Bake, covered, for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is just tender. To test for tenderness, insert a fork into one of the slices. It should pierce the squash easily. This step ensures the squash is cooked through before the glaze is added.
Step 8: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter and brown sugar. Use a fork or spoon to mix them together until they are well combined and form a smooth, spreadable paste. If your butter is not soft enough, you can microwave the mixture for a few seconds, being careful not to melt the butter completely.
Step 9: Remove the foil from the baking pan and spread the brown sugar mixture evenly over the squash slices. Ensure each slice is coated with a generous layer of the glaze.
Step 10: Bake, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes longer, basting occasionally with the melted butter and sugar mixture from the bottom of the pan. Basting ensures that the squash slices are evenly coated with the caramelized glaze. The squash is done when the slices are tender and the glaze is bubbly and golden brown. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
COOKING Rating:
- Easy: This recipe is perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike. The steps are straightforward and require minimal culinary skills.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a side dish with roasted chicken, pork, or beef.
- Pair with a hearty grain like quinoa or wild rice for a complete meal.
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor.
- Drizzle with maple syrup for an even sweeter treat.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream for a dessert option.
- Alongside roasted vegetables, especially Brussels sprouts or carrots.
Tips:
- Use a sharp knife to cut the squash safely and efficiently.
- Make sure the butter is softened for easy mixing.
- Do not overbake the squash, or it will become mushy.
- Basting the squash ensures even caramelization.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave.
- For a spicier flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the brown sugar mixture.
- Substitute maple syrup for some of the brown sugar for a different flavor profile.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
Total Time: 60-65 minutes
Nutritional Information: (per serving, approximate)
Calories: 250 kcal Protein: 2 g Sodium: 50 mg (depending on butter used)
Conclusion
Candied Acorn Squash Slices are a simple yet elegant side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, along with the tender texture of the squash and the caramelized crust, makes this recipe a true winner. Whether you’re looking for a new way to enjoy seasonal produce or want to impress your guests with a unique and flavorful dish, this recipe is sure to deliver. Embrace the flavors of fall and winter with this delightful and easy-to-make recipe. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers about this Recipe:
Q1: Can I use a different type of squash for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While this recipe is specifically designed for acorn squash, you can definitely experiment with other winter squashes like butternut squash or kabocha squash. Keep in mind that different squashes may have slightly different cooking times, so adjust accordingly. Butternut squash, for example, might require a bit less time, while kabocha squash might need a little more. The key is to ensure the squash is tender before adding the glaze. Also, the flavor profile will slightly change, depending on the squash used. Butternut squash will offer a sweeter and nuttier flavor.
Q2: What if I don’t have brown sugar? Can I use white sugar instead?
A: While brown sugar is preferred for its rich, molasses-like flavor, you can substitute it with white sugar in a pinch. However, the flavor will be different. If using white sugar, consider adding a tablespoon of molasses to the sugar to mimic the flavor of brown sugar. This will help to create a richer and more complex flavor profile in the glaze. Without the molasses, the glaze will be sweeter and less caramel-like.
Q3: How do I prevent the squash from becoming too mushy?
A: The key to preventing mushy squash is to monitor the cooking time carefully. The initial baking step with foil is crucial for softening the squash without overcooking it. Start checking for tenderness around the 25-minute mark. The squash should be just tender, not falling apart. Also, avoid overcrowding the baking pan, as this can lead to uneven cooking. If you are unsure, err on the side of slightly undercooked, as it will continue to cook when you add the butter and sugar mixture.
Q4: Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the squash ahead of time up to the point of adding the glaze. Bake the squash with the foil, let it cool, and then store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply spread the glaze over the squash and bake as directed. This is a great way to save time when preparing for a large meal. However, best results are achieved when the squash is served hot and fresh from the oven with the glaze still bubbly and caramelized.
Q5: Can I add any spices to this recipe to enhance the flavor?
A: Absolutely! Spices can add a wonderful layer of complexity to this recipe. Cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice are all excellent choices. Add a pinch of your favorite spice or a combination of spices to the brown sugar mixture before spreading it over the squash. Start with a small amount (about 1/4 teaspoon) and adjust to taste. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat to balance the sweetness. A dash of vanilla extract can also complement the caramelized flavors beautifully.
