Posted in Homestead Kitchen
I hope you are all enjoying the bounties of Autumn! Here in the Northwest, it is our busiest time in the garden as everything seems to be ripening at the same time! One thing I love to grow is the beautiful and delicious Delicata Squash. They are so sweet and easy to grow. Pick them when they are a bright yellow with deep green stripes down the sides. This squash is oblong with an orange flesh. Like most varieties of squash, wait for the leaves to die back (if weather permits) so that you know it has been properly "cured" for winter storage. Delicatas have always stored quite well for me.
Here is my favorite way to prepare them: Take as many as you want to serve. Remove the stems, wash them and slice down the middle lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds, turn them over and pierce the rind a few times with a fork and place them cut side up in a large glass baking pan. Make sure they are packed tight in there because you don't want them to tip over while baking.
Now, pour heavy cream into the center cavity of each cut squash, until it is about 3/4 full. Then, spoon two tablespoons real maple syrup into each puddle of cream. Pour water into the bottom of the pan until it is about 1/4" high. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes or until fork tender. Heavenly - almost like dessert.
Lisa Vitello
Lisa publishes the New Harvest Homestead newsletter. For more information, visit her website at www.newharvesthomestead.com
