Acorn squash is a type of winter squash that has a delicious sweet and nutty flavor. However, acorn squash can be challenging to cut into due to its tough outer rind. The key to easily cutting acorn squash is properly softening the squash first before attempting to slice into it. There are a few methods you can use to soften acorn squash so it is easy to cut through the rind and flesh.
Methods for Softening Acorn Squash Before Cutting
Microwaving
One of the quickest and easiest ways to soften acorn squash before cutting is by microwaving it. To microwave an acorn squash:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Wash the squash under running water and pat it dry with a paper towel or clean dish cloth. |
| 2 | Using a sharp knife, pierce the squash 4-5 times all around the surface. This allows steam to escape while cooking. |
| 3 | Place the squash on a microwave-safe plate or in a shallow microwave-safe bowl. Do not cover it. |
| 4 | Microwave on high power for 2-3 minutes for a small squash, 3-5 minutes for a medium, and 5-8 minutes for a large. |
| 5 | Remove from the microwave and check tenderness by pressing gently into the rind with your finger. It should give slightly. If still too firm, microwave in 1 minute intervals until softened. |
Microwaving rapidly heats and softens the interal flesh of the acorn squash, making it much easier to cut through the skin. Just take care when removing the hot squash from the microwave as the outer rind will be hot.
Baking
Baking is another easy hands-off method for softening an acorn squash before cutting. To bake an acorn squash:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). |
| 2 | Wash the acorn squash and pat dry. Leave the stem on if still attached. |
| 3 | Pierce the squash several times with a knife or fork. |
| 4 | Place directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet. Do not cover. |
| 5 | Bake for 30-60 minutes until very tender when poked with a fork. Time will vary depending on size. |
The dry heat of the oven gently breaks down the interior and exterior of the squash, making it soft and easy to cut into. Baking gives you hands-off softening while you can do other kitchen tasks.
Boiling
Boiling or simmering acorn squash in water is an easy stovetop method for softening. To boil acorn squash:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Wash the acorn squash. |
| 2 | Using a large pot, bring water to a boil. Use enough water to completely submerge the squash. |
| 3 | Carefully place the whole squash into the boiling water. |
| 4 | Allow to boil for 15-30 minutes until very tender when poked with a fork. |
| 5 | Remove squash from water and allow to cool briefly before handling. |
The hot water gently cooks the squash, breaking down its fibers so it is soft and easy to cut through. Just be careful when removing the hot squash from the boiling water.
Steaming
Steaming is a healthy stovetop method for softening acorn squash. To steam:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Wash the acorn squash. |
| 2 | Fill a large pot with 1-2 inches of water. Place a steamer basket or rack inside the pot so it sits above the water line. Bring the water to a boil. |
| 3 | Carefully place the whole acorn squash in the steamer basket. Cover with a tight fitting lid. |
| 4 | Steam for 20-40 minutes until very tender when poked with a fork. Check tenderness periodically. |
| 5 | Remove from steamer and allow to cool slightly before handling. |
Steaming uses hot steam to gently break down and soften the tough outer and inner portions of the squash. This method avoids submerging the squash in water.
Tips for Cutting Softened Acorn Squash
Once you have softened your acorn squash using one of the above methods, it is ready to slice into! Here are some tips for safely and easily cutting your softened squash:
- Use a large, sharp chef’s knife and cutting board for easiest slicing.
- Trim off the very top and bottom ends first where the stem connects.
- Place the squash upright on the cutting board to slice it in half lengthwise from top to bottom.
- Scoop out the seeds and strings using a large metal spoon.
- Slice each half into thirds or quarters lengthwise.
- Chop up the peeled slices across the rings as desired for pieces.
- Take care as the flesh will still be hot if you softened using heat.
Cutting the squash in half first makes scooping out the seeds easier. Then slicing the halves into rings portions it nicely for stuffing or just roasting.
Serving and Using Soft Acorn Squash
There are lots of delicious ways to use acorn squash once it is softened and sliced. Here are some tasty options:
Roasted
– Toss sliced acorn squash with olive oil, salt, pepper, and optional herbs. Spread on a baking sheet and roast at 425°F for 25-35 minutes until browned and tender.
Sautéed
– Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium high heat. Add sliced acorn squash and sauté for 5-8 minutes until lightly browned. Season with salt, pepper, garlic, or other spices.
Stuffed
– Stuff halves or rings of softened acorn squash with cooked rice, sausage, veggies, cheese, or other fillings of choice. Bake to warm through and melt any cheese.
Puréed
– Mash or blend softened roasted acorn squash with broth, cream, or milk to make a smooth purée side dish.
Added to Soups or Stews
– Dice softened acorn squash and add it to soups, chilis, stews, or other simmered dishes for hearty flavor and nutrition.
Storage of Softened Acorn Squash
If you need to store leftover cooked acorn squash:
- Allow to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Cooked acorn squash will keep for 3-4 days in the fridge.
- The pieces can also be frozen for longer term storage. Freeze in airtight bags or containers for up to 3 months.
Avoid leaving cooked acorn squash out at room temperature too long, as it can spoil quickly. Refrigeration preserves the texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Cutting into uncooked acorn squash can be challenging and dangerous due to how tough the rind is. Properly softening the squash using the microwave, oven, boiling, or steaming before slicing makes cutting it much safer and easier. Always use a sharp knife and take care when handling the hot softened squash. Softened acorn squash can then be used in a variety of delicious ways. Store extra properly in the fridge or freezer. Enjoy the sweet flavor and smooth texture of acorn squash in your favorite dishes after using these methods to easily soften it for slicing and cooking.