Butternut squash is a nutritious and delicious vegetable that can be enjoyed in many different ways.
Whether you’re looking to add some flavor and texture to your salads or whip up a creamy soup for dinner, steaming butternut squash is a quick and easy way to turn it into something special.
In this post, we’ll walk through the steps of four simple methods for steaming butternut squash so that you can get cooking with confidence.
Let’s dive in!
How To Steam Butternut Squash
Method 1: Steaming Butternut Squash on the Stovetop
Steaming butternut squash on the stovetop is an incredibly easy and efficient way to cook this nutritious winter vegetable.
All you need is a pot of boiling water, a steamer basket, and fresh butternut squash. Here’s how it’s done:
- Step 1: Fill your pot with enough water so that it will be able to reach the bottom of your steamer basket when placed inside.
- Step 2: Place the steamer basket into the pot and add in your cubed butternut squash.
- Step 3: Cover the pot with a lid and boil over medium-high heat.
Once your steam has begun to rise from the lid, reduce heat to low or medium-low and let simmer for 8-10 minutes until tender.
You’ll know it’s finished cooking when you can easily pierce through one piece of the squash using a fork.
Once cooked, remove from heat immediately, as overcooking will cause mushiness & loss of flavor.
This method ensures even cooking while preserving nutrients like vitamins C & A in abundance in butternut squash.
Method 2: Steaming Butternut Squash in a food steamer
Cooking with a food steamer requires minimal prep work, as all you need is the squash itself, water, and your chosen seasonings.
To start, rinse off your butternut squash under running water to remove any debris or dirt.
Then cut it into cubes using a sharp knife or kitchen scissors – no need to peel the skin.
Place these cubes into the steamer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them so they can cook evenly.
Bringing up The Heat
Once you’ve added in your cubed pieces of butternut squash, pour in enough water that it covers at least an inch below the bottom of the steamer basket.
Turn on your stovetop burner and turn it up until it reaches medium-high heat before placing your steamer onto it with its lid securely closed.
Steam for around 20 minutes or until each piece is soft when pierced with a fork – this will depend on how big/small each cube was sliced.
Adding That Finishing Touch
Once cooked, transfer your delicious butternut squash onto a plate ready for serving.
Add some extra flavor by sprinkling over salt, pepper, and fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary.
Enjoy!
Method 3: Steaming Butternut Squash in a microwave
If you’re short on time, steaming in a microwave is one of the popular alternatives.
Fill a safe microwave container halfway full with cold water, followed by cube-shaped pieces/slices, before placing the cover atop the container securely.
If no cover is available, use a damp paper towel instead.
Set the timer according to the recipe instructions. Usually, 6-9 minutes will suffice.
Allow the steam to build up within the dish while being cooked, and avoid peeking too often. Otherwise, you risk disrupting the process causing longer cook times.
Once finished, allow a few extra moments to rest before serving hot & fresh.
Method 4: Steaming Butternut Squash in an oven
Steaming butternut squash in an oven is one of the most convenient and delicious methods for preparing this vegetable.
It’s relatively quick, requiring only 25 to 30 minutes, depending on your oven temperature and the size of your squash.
First, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Cut off both ends of the butternut squash with a sharp knife before cutting it lengthwise into two halves.
Scoop out any seeds that are located near the top of each half using a spoon or ice cream scoop.
Rub each half with some cooking oil or melted butter before sprinkling lightly with salt and pepper for extra flavor if desired.
Next, place each half cut-side down onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil, so they don’t stick during cooking time.
Place them in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until tender when pierced through with a fork (cooking times may vary).
Once cooked through, use kitchen tongs to remove from heat and let cool slightly before transferring onto plates ready to be served immediately.
What is butternut squash?
Butternut squash is a type of winter squash that has a sweet, nutty flavor. It has an oblong shape and bright orange-yellow skin.
The flesh is yellow and dense, with a smooth texture when cooked.
Butternut squash can be roasted, baked, pureed into soups, or mashed for casseroles – it’s very versatile!
Similar articles to check out!
FAQs
How To Steam Butternut Squash For Baby?
Steaming butternut squash for babies is a great way to provide them with a healthy and easily digestible meal.
To begin, cut the butternut squash into cubes or slices and add to a steamer basket inside a pot filled with an inch or two of water.
Bring the water to a boil and let it steam until the squash is tender, which should take around 10 minutes. Once cooked, mash or puree as desired before serving.
What’s The Best Way To Soften Butternut Squash?
The best way to soften butternut squash is by using a microwave.
To prepare butternut squash in a microwave, place it on a microwave-safe plate and cook it on high for 3 to 5 minutes to par-cook or up to 10 minutes to fully cook.
Flip the squash over once or twice during this time using a cloth or oven glove.
What To Put On Steamed Butternut Squash
Steamed butternut squash makes a delicious side dish and can be dressed up with all sorts of flavorful additions.
Try adding butter and herbs, like garlic and rosemary, or combine them with fresh fruits, like apples and cranberries.
You can also top it off with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or chopped nuts for a crunchy finish.
Can You Steam Butternut Squash With The Skin On?
Yes, you can steam butternut squash with the skin on. The heat from the steam will soften and cook the skin of the squash, so it should be edible when done.
However, depending on your squash’s thick skin, you may want to peel it off before eating, as some thicker skins may not get cooked all through.
Is It Better To Steam Or Boil Butternut Squash?
It depends on what you’re trying to do with the butternut squash. Steaming generally results in a softer and more tender texture, while boiling tends to result in a firmer texture.
Boiling is also the quickest cooking method for butternut squash, so it’s great if you need food ready quickly.
However, if you’re looking for maximum flavor, steaming is usually your best bet because it helps preserve all of the natural flavors and nutrients of the squash.
Conclusion
Steaming butternut squash is one of the best ways to enjoy its flavor and nutritional benefits.
With these four simple methods, you can quickly and easily turn your butternut squash into a delicious side dish that everyone will love.
So why not give it a try?