WHAT IS AN ACORN SQUASH?
Is it an acorn? Is it a squash? Is it a comic book superhero like a Spider or Bat man? Only in that this winter squash has vertical ridges and a squat form reminiscent of an acorn. It is related to other members of the gourd family including the zucchini. A Native American original, this vegetable comes in dark green, white and the classic orange. They grow up to 3 pounds in size (avoid if larger), and when mature their skin loses its shiny, waxy appearance. A dense, dull looking squash that is a mix of colors is perfect for your next recipe.
WHY ARE ACORN SQUASHES GOOD FOR YOU?
They are a great source of vitamin C (though the older this squash gets the more the vitamin degrades). Mineral-wise they’re also a good source of potassium and magnesium. And lastly for digestive health these gourds supply plenty of dietary fiber.
WHEN ARE ACORN SQUASHES IN SEASON?
It’s an early Fall through Winter harvest.
HOW SHOULD ACORN SQUASHES BE STORED?
Uncut, do not refrigerate and it’ll keep for 1 to 2 months. However to avoid mold you can occasionally rub them with vegetable or olive oil. Cut, they’ll last about a week in your refrigerator in a zip lock bag. If you want to freeze them, make sure to remove the skin first. They can be frozen raw or cooked (which prolongs their frozen shelf life). To avoid freezer burn, make sure you use an airtight container. Your frozen chunks of squash should keep for around 9 months.
WHAT IS THE PROPER WAY TO CUT AN ACORN SQUASH?
The knife technique for all squashes is pretty much the same, click here to see!
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AN ACORN, BUTTERNUT AND KABOCHA SQUASH?
Acorns are smaller and less sweet then butternut squashes. However they are richer in minerals (calcium, potassium, magnesium) and generally considered the healthiest of squashes. Butternuts though have a longer shelf life, are easier to peel and are richer in Vitamin C. The Kabocha or Japanese squash is vaguely similar in appearance to the green acorn squash, though the ridges are less pronounced and the stripes less uniform. Their skin is thinner then an acorns, but they make for an amazing soup!