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Kabocha Squash

Kabocha squash, also known as Japanese pumpkin, is a popular winter squash variety that has a pleasantly sweet and nutty flavor. Its exterior is dark green and hard, with a bumpy texture, while the interior has a vibrant orange flesh and a central seed cavity. Rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as potassium and dietary fiber, kabocha squash makes a nutritious addition to any meal. In the culinary world, kabocha squash is often used in soups, stews, or roasted as a side dish. Its velvety texture and natural sweetness make it perfect for purees, while the seeds can be roasted for a tasty snack. Its versatility allows it to be incorporated into a range of both savory and sweet dishes, giving home cooks a delightful and healthy ingredient to explore.
#141
IN FRESH VEGETABLES
35
CAL / 100G
$0.12
AVG / OZ
kabocha squash
87%
CARBS
0%
FAT
13%
PROTEIN
Kabocha Squash FAQ
When cooking with kabocha squash, people often find it challenging to cut due to its tough skin. It's important to use a long, sharp knife to slice it open efficiently and safely. Peeling kabocha can be tricky but you don't actually need to peel it as the skin is edible once cooked, which is not common knowledge and tends to surprise most people. A common mistake is throwing away the seeds, but they can be cleaned and roasted for an easy, healthy snack. To maximize the flavor, roasting kabocha, rather than boiling, allows it to caramelize naturally. A tip when roasting is to add a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkling of salt to draw out its inherent sweetness. Another question that often rises is when is the right time to eat a kabocha squash? Unlike other squashes, kabocha is best when its skin turns from bright green to a dull, dark green. At this stage, the squash’s sugars are at their peak, giving it a sweet, deep flavor.
How do you cut kabocha squash?
Do you have to peel kabocha squash?
Can you eat kabocha squash seeds?
How to tell when kabocha squash is ready to eat?
Can you microwave kabocha squash?
Is kabocha squash good for you?
Can kabocha squash be eaten raw?
How do you cook kabocha squash in the oven?
Why is my kabocha squash stringy?
What does kabocha squash taste like?
Expiration & Storage Tips
When does kabocha squash expire?
Kabocha squash can be quite a long-lasting vegetable. If it's kept unopened and in a cool, dark place, it can last for about 1 to 3 months. Compared to the print date on the package, the squash should still be in good condition upon purchase, as it's typically harvested when mature. Once it's been cut open, however, you should refrigerate any leftovers and aim to use them within 1 to 2 weeks. If you freeze cooked kabocha squash, it can last for several months, though the texture may change slightly upon thawing. If the squash was already cut at the store, it'll likely last for about a week if kept refrigerated.
How do you tell if kabocha squash is bad?
The easiest way to know if your kabocha squash has gone bad is by checking its skin. If there are any soft or moist spots or signs of mold, it's likely time to throw it out. You should also sniff the squash — if it has an off or sour smell, that's another indication that it's spoiled. If you've cut into the squash and stored it in the fridge, always remember to check for any slimy texture or foul smell before use.
Tips for storing kabocha squash to extend shelf life
• Keep the squash in a cool, dark place like a pantry or basement for optimal lifespan. • If you cut into the squash but don’t use all of it, wrap the cut side tightly in plastic wrap, then store it in the fridge. This will help prevent moisture loss. • To freeze kabocha squash, roast or steam it first, then let it cool completely before dividing it into portions and freezing it in freezer-safe bags. • Remember to properly thaw frozen squash before use — you can do this by placing it in the fridge overnight, or using a microwaving it on a low setting until it's easy to cut or puree.
EXPIRES WITHIN
6 - 12
WEEKS
Health Info
Macros
9g
CARBS
0g
FAT
1g
PROTEIN
Allowed on these diets
LOW FAT
HIGH CALCIUM
VEGETARIAN
KETO
PALEO
WHOLE 30
MEDITERRANEAN
LOW CARB
VEGAN
LACTOSE FREE
GLUTEN FREE
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