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Peeling hard vegetables can be difficult and squashes are no exception. Butternut squash offers the added challenge of having a peculiar guitar shape. But, never fear, here is a quick tutorial that will help you learn how to cut and peel butternut squash safely.
First off, you'll need a sharp knife (please don't use a dull one as you'll increase the chances of cutting yourself by mistake), a vegetable peeler (we really like the Swiss Y-peelers for this task) and a flat surface to work on.
Don't forget to wash and dry the butternut squash before getting started.
How to cut and peel butternut squash: an easy technique
To cut and peel butternut squash into cubes follow these easy steps:
1. Using a sharp knife cut off the ends of the butternut squash. Be extra careful and hold the squash steadily with one hand to prevent it from rolling while you cut it.
2. Cut the squash horizontally where it begins to curve. You'll end up with a top piece that is slender and a bottom round piece with seeds.
3. Remove the seeds using a spoon. Slice each piece in half. Now you'll have four pieces of squash.
4. Using the vegetable peeler go ahead and peel the skin off. You could also do this before after step 1 but we find smaller pieces of squash are easier to manage. Both methods work well so choose the one you like most.
5. Cut the butternut squash into cubes by slicing it lengthwise then crosswise. Work in small batches and don't worry too much about the cubes being perfectly even, especially if you'll be making soup.
Of course, you cut also cut butternut squash into rings or slices. That will all depend on what you intend to cook.
Watch it: how to cut and peel butternut squash
This short video from 1 Recette 1 Minute illustrates how to cut and peel butternut squash in a quick and safe way. Take a look:
How to pick a ripe butternut squash
When shopping for butternut squash there are certain things to look out for. Pick one that is darker in colour and free of green patches. The skin should be matte rather than shiny. The squash should feel heavy and make a hollow sound when you give it a quick tap.
How to cook butternut squash
Butternut squash is a very versatile vegetable. Roasted is most people’s preferred option for ease and flavour, but butternut squash can also be slow cooked until tender, steamed, or cubed and sautéed over a medium heat.
Butternut squash recipes: amazing ravioli
Now that you know how to cut and peel butternut squash, what are you going to make with it?
How about some irresistible ravioli filled with butternut squash, mascarpone and sage?
Here is the must-try ravioli recipe. The combination of mascarpone and parmesan in the filling gives it an extra bite that perfectly balances the sweetness of the squash and is tempered by the marjoram. Delicious served with a glass of crisp white verdicchio.
Scallops with butternut squash
Perfectly seared scallops are a wonderful match for butternut squash caponata, a twist on the Sicilian classic usually made with aubergines. The perfect autumn dinner party starter.
Let New York chef Michael White show you how it's done.
Butternut squash stuffing
Butternut squash, chestnuts and wild rice make a killer stuffing for a bird, whether you’re having a traditional British Christmas or an all-American Thanksgiving.
Prepare any of these stuffing recipes for your next holiday gathering, from nutty pecan, to hearty cornbread or the more sophisticated chestnut and wild rice.
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