I was always hesitant to try cooking butternut squash because it seemed like a daunting task. The thought of wrestling with a large and oddly-shaped vegetable, peeling off its tough skin, and then finding the perfect way to cook it left me feeling overwhelmed. However, after some research and experimentation, I discovered a quick and easy method to steam butternut squash in the microwave. Not only does this method save time and effort, but it also brings out the natural sweetness and tender texture of the squash. In this article, I will share with you my step-by-step guide to steaming butternut squash in the microwave.
Gather Your Ingredients and Tools
Ingredients:
Tools:
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s important to gather all the necessary ingredients and tools. The star of the show, of course, is the butternut squash itself. Look for a squash that is firm, heavy for its size, and free from any soft spots or blemishes. Additionally, you will need water to create steam and enhance the cooking process. Salt is optional, but it can enhance the flavor of the squash if desired. As for the tools, a sharp knife will be essential for cutting the tough skin of the squash, while a microwave-safe dish with a lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap will help trap steam inside the dish, speeding up the cooking process. Finally, a fork or a sharp-tipped knife will assist you in testing for doneness, and a serving spoon or tongs will allow you to handle the hot squash safely.
Prepare the Butternut Squash
The first step in steaming butternut squash in the microwave is to prepare the squash itself. Start by washing the squash under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris from its skin. Next, carefully slice off both ends of the squash to create a stable base on each side. Then, using a sharp knife, carefully cut the squash in half lengthwise. Be cautious while doing this, as the squash can be quite hard and difficult to cut through.
Once you have halved the squash, scoop out the seeds and stringy bits from the cavity using a spoon. You can discard the seeds or set them aside to roast later as a delicious and nutritious snack. Now, it’s time to remove the tough skin from the squash. If you’re finding it challenging to peel off the skin with a vegetable peeler, you can use a knife to carefully remove it. However, exercise caution to avoid any accidents or injuries. Once the skin is removed, cut the squash into smaller, evenly sized pieces. This will ensure that they cook evenly in the microwave.
Steam the Butternut Squash in the Microwave
Now that the butternut squash is prepped and ready, it’s time to steam it in the microwave. Place the squash pieces in a microwave-safe dish with a lid or cover them tightly with microwave-safe plastic wrap. If you’re using a microwave-safe dish with a lid, make sure to leave a small opening to allow steam to escape while cooking. Alternatively, if you’re using plastic wrap, make a few small slits to vent the steam.
Add a couple of tablespoons of water to the dish. This water will create a steamy environment that will cook the squash. If desired, sprinkle the squash with a pinch of salt to enhance its flavor. Cover the dish or wrap it tightly with the plastic wrap to create a seal. This seal will trap the steam inside, allowing the squash to cook quickly and evenly.
Place the dish in the microwave and set the cooking time. Start with 5 minutes on high power and then check for doneness. Pierce the thickest piece of squash with a fork or a sharp-tipped knife. If it goes through smoothly, the squash is cooked. If not, return the dish to the microwave and continue cooking in 1-minute increments until the squash is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Enjoy Your Steamed Butternut Squash
Once the butternut squash is perfectly cooked, carefully remove the dish from the microwave. Take off the lid or plastic wrap, being cautious of the hot steam that will escape. Allow the squash to cool slightly before handling.
Using a serving spoon or tongs, transfer the steamed butternut squash to a serving dish or individual plates. You can serve it as a side dish, mash it for a creamy puree, or use it as an ingredient in various recipes. Steamed butternut squash pairs well with herb-roasted chicken, grilled fish, or even tossed in a salad with vibrant greens and a tangy dressing.
In just a few easy steps, you can steam butternut squash in the microwave, transforming this intimidating vegetable into a tender and flavor-packed delight. Now that you know this quick and hassle-free method, you can confidently incorporate butternut squash into your meals, enjoying its natural sweetness and impressive nutritional profile. So, go ahead and give it a try – your taste buds and body will thank you!