Vegetarian Stuffed Kabocha Squash Recipe {Vegan Option} (2024)

FAQs

What does kabocha squash taste like? ›

Kabocha has an exceptionally sweet flavor, even sweeter than butternut squash. It is similar in texture and flavor to a pumpkin and sweet potato combined. Some kabocha can taste like Russet potatoes or chestnuts.

Kabocha. Kabocha squashes are a Japanese squash variety that looks similar to acorn and buttercup squashes. They have a round shape with thin, edible dark green skin and deep orange insides. After steaming or simmering in broth, their texture and flavor are similar to those of a sweet potato.

Also known as Japanese pumpkin, kabocha squash is a wonderfully versatile winter squash variety. In Japanese cooking, it's often simmered in a flavorful dashi stock to make Kabocha no Nimono or fried and served as part of vegetable tempura.

If you are not using the entire kabocha squash, make sure to remove the seeds and pith from cut kabocha before wrapping with plastic wrap. You can store it in the refrigerator for 2-3 days or in the freezer for a month. You can store the whole uncut kabocha in a cool, dry, dark place for up to 1-2 months.

Research shows that kabocha squash flavonoids like beta-carotene and lutein promote skin health. It prevents oxidation and inflammation of skin cells. It may also protect skin from damage, aging, and cancer growth.

There are approximately 30 calories in one cup of kabocha squash and about 8 grams of carbohydrate. There are 1.2 grams of fiber in kabocha and about 3.5 grams of naturally occurring sugar.

Kabocha has fewer calories per cup (40 calories) than butternut squash (60 calories). In addition, kabocha contains fewer than half the amount of carbs of butternut squash (7 grams vs. 16 grams), and it is rich in dietary fiber, which works to help you feel full between meals.

Characteristics: The squat, green kabocha—the Japanese word for squash—has a nutty, earthy flavor with just a touch of sweetness. It's similar in shape and size to a buttercup squash, but the base points out and not in.

A squash with soft spots and is soft to the touch, is a sign that the squash has gone bad. And if it starts to leak fluid, that's a sure sign that the squash is spoiled. Likewise, if the flesh and seeds of the fruit are mushy and slimy, that's a clear sign that it shouldn't be eaten.

Why is my kabocha squash bitter? ›

Kabocha is grown year-round, but they are best in the late summer to fall months. Just like an avocado or a banana, you want to make sure you're not getting a kabocha squash that is underripe. If you do, it will NOT taste like what I described above. Instead, it will taste bitter and not sweet at all.

Kabocha squash is a type of Japanese winter squash variety from the species Cucurbita maxima. Also known as Japanese squash or Japenese pumpkin, at first glance, it's easy to mistake this squash for a funny-looking green pumpkin.

Peel and cut the squash into chunks of any size. Spread the pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and place in the freezer. When completely frozen, transfer the squash to a freezer safe container with 1/2-inch headspace to allow for food expansion.

INSECT PESTS: Cucumber beetles, squash bugs, and vine borers are all common pests for cucurbits. Protect young plants with floating row cover. Squash bug eggs found on the undersides of leaves may be crushed by hand. For vine borers, cut out of vines and hill soil over the wound.

Before going head-over-heals for kabochas and butternuts, are they safe for dogs? Happily, generally yes! Kabocha and butternut belong to a variety of squash called the Winter Squash. They are lower in carbs and calories compared to sweet potato and yet still has chock full of vitamins and nutrients.

Buttercup squash is a lot like kabocha with a belly button — but generally a little larger, a little moister, and not as nuanced in terms of flavor. These qualities allow buttercups to pair nicely with other flavors and textures, such as apples, grains, nuts, and cheeses.

Which Squash is Better than a Butternut? The kabocha won decisively. The deep orange flesh was creamy, without visible fibers. It had a slightly earthier and richer flavor than the butternut.

Kabocha squash contains fiber and fluid, which help support healthy gut bacteria, bulk up poop, and hydrate the intestines for healthy digestion and bowel movements. To minimize digestive discomfort, gradually introduce high-fiber foods like squash.

Supports Weight Loss

Many people use kabocha squash for weight loss, and for good reason. With less than 40 calories and 1.7 grams of fiber per cup, adding kabocha squash to your diet can be a great way to support feelings of satiety and boost weight loss.