Pickled Butternut Squash: A Creative Twist on a Classic Flavor

Oleh Harvey Franecki June 13, 2023 Post a Comment

Butternut squash is a classic fall vegetable that's commonly used in soups, stews, and roasted dishes. However, have you ever tried pickling it? Pickled butternut squash is a unique and delicious way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. In this blog post, we'll explore the different ways you can pickle butternut squash and how to incorporate it into your meals.

What is Pickled Butternut Squash?

Pickled butternut squash is exactly what it sounds like: butternut squash that has been pickled in a vinegar-based solution. The acidity of the vinegar helps to preserve the squash while giving it a tangy and slightly sweet flavor. It's a great way to add some variety to your pickling repertoire and make use of an abundant fall crop.

How to Make Pickled Butternut Squash

To make pickled butternut squash, you'll need:

1 medium-sized butternut squash
1 cup apple cider vinegar
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon salt
1 teaspoon black peppercorns
1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
1/2 teaspoon coriander seeds
1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds

Peel the butternut squash and slice it into 1/4-inch-thick slices or cubes.
In a small saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, salt, peppercorns, mustard seeds, coriander seeds, and fennel seeds. Bring to a boil over high heat and then reduce the heat to low and let simmer for 5 minutes.
In a large bowl, combine the sliced or cubed butternut squash with the pickling liquid. Stir to coat the squash thoroughly.
Transfer the squash and liquid to a quart-sized jar or container. Make sure the squash is fully submerged in the liquid.
Cover the jar or container with a lid or plastic wrap and let it sit at room temperature for 24 hours.
After 24 hours, transfer the jar or container to the refrigerator. The pickled butternut squash will be ready to eat after 2-3 days and will keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Ways to Use Pickled Butternut Squash

Now that you know how to make pickled butternut squash, what can you do with it? Here are some ideas:

Charcuterie Board

Pickled butternut squash is a great addition to any charcuterie board. It pairs well with cheeses, meats, and crackers. You can also add other pickled vegetables like carrots and cucumbers to create a colorful and flavorful spread.

Sandwiches and Wraps

Add some pickled butternut squash to your favorite sandwich or wrap for a tangy crunch. It's a great way to add some extra veggies to your lunch.

Salads

Pickled butternut squash adds a sweet and sour note to salads. Toss it with some leafy greens, nuts, and cheese for a delicious fall salad.

Tacos

Pickled butternut squash is a great topping for tacos. Pair it with some spicy salsa, avocado, and cilantro for a tasty vegetarian taco.

Pasta Dishes

Add some pickled butternut squash to your pasta dishes for a unique twist. It pairs well with creamy sauces and hearty vegetables like mushrooms and spinach.

Health Benefits of Pickled Butternut Squash

Not only is pickled butternut squash delicious, but it's also good for you. Here are some health benefits of butternut squash:

High in vitamin A: Butternut squash is rich in beta-carotene, which is converted to vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A is important for healthy vision, immune function, and skin health.
Low in calories: Butternut squash is a low-calorie vegetable, making it a great choice for weight management.
High in fiber: Butternut squash is a good source of fiber, which can promote digestive health and help you feel full.

Tips for Making Pickled Butternut Squash

Here are some tips to keep in mind when making pickled butternut squash:

Use fresh butternut squash: Fresh, ripe butternut squash will yield the best flavor and texture.
Slice the squash evenly: For even pickling, make sure to slice the squash into uniform pieces.
Let it sit for at least 24 hours: The longer the squash sits in the pickling liquid, the more flavorful it will be.
Use the right vinegar: Apple cider vinegar works well for pickling butternut squash, but you can also experiment with other types of vinegar like white wine vinegar or rice vinegar.

Pickled butternut squash is a creative and delicious way to enjoy this fall vegetable. It's easy to make and can be used in a variety of dishes. Plus, it's packed with health benefits like vitamin A and fiber. Give it a try and see how you can incorporate it into your meals.

FAQs

Q1. How long does pickled butternut squash last?

Pickled butternut squash will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Q2. Can I use other types of vinegar for pickling butternut squash?

Yes, you can experiment with other types of vinegar like white wine vinegar or rice vinegar.

Q3. Can I use frozen butternut squash for pickling?

Fresh butternut squash will yield the best flavor and texture, but you can use frozen if fresh is not available.

Q4. Do I need to sterilize the jars before pickling?

It's a good idea to sterilize the jars before pickling to prevent any bacteria from growing. You can do this by boiling the jars in water for 10 minutes.