Beyond the pumpkin, butternut, and spaghetti squash, Quebec has an impressive variety of cucurbits. Some squashes are unrecognized, while others are mysteriously appealing. Given their odd look, those unfamiliar with squash may feel a little overwhelmed. However, they make for a great find if you want to discover their delicate flavour and mouth-watering texture.
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Generally speaking, Quebec’s squashes fall into one of two major categories: summer squash and winter squash. And classifying them is easy as can be! Summer squash is delicate, whereas winter squash has a thick, tough skin. In cool, favourable storage conditions, their skin provides great protection, allowing the winter squash to be preserved until early spring.100 varieties
There are over 100 varieties of squash in Quebec, and most can be prepared the same way. Before you wrestle your squash to try to peel it, note that you can make the process a whole lot easier by poking the flesh with the tip of a knife. Next, cook the squash in the microwave at maximum intensity for three minutes to soften the skin. Voilà! You can now peel, cut, and cook your squash to your liking!5 squashes to discover and love
If you’re a fan of sweet squash with smooth flesh, here are five varieties to expand your culinary repertoire. Nutritious and packed full of vitamins, they are best when cut into cubes or chunks and coated with a mixture of 30 ml (2 tbsp.) of oil and 15 ml (1 tbsp.) of honey. Simply roast them on the centre grill of your oven, preheated at 200°C (400°F) for 45 minutes, and enjoy!
