Cutting up a huge, unwieldy butternut squash can be scary– it’s one of the most difficult types of squash to cut– particularly if you’re not sure where to begin. Read on for the safest, most effective method to cut butternut squash in just 4 easy actions.
What You’ll Need
Equipment/ Tools
Chef’s knife or cleaver (or another sharp, heavy knife).
Cutting board.
Y-shaped peeler.
Spoon with a sharp edge (such as a soup spoon).
Cooking area towel or paper towels (optional).
Materials.
Butternut squash.
Directions.
Action 1: Cut the Squash.
When cutting a butternut squash (or any other roly-poly, oddly shaped veggie), break it down into manageable pieces initially to streamline the rest of the procedure. It’s easy with butternut due to the fact that it has a natural waist. It’s pear-shaped, to be sure, however just above the round bottom is an obvious change in shape. That’s where you want to start.

Lay the squash down on its side and, using your sharpest, heaviest knife (your go-to chef’s knife or a cleaver), start by cutting off the squash’s ends. Cut all the way through the squash simply above its round bottom to split it into two more regular-shaped pieces.
Action 2: Peel the Squash.
It’s finest to peel squash after cutting it since the smaller sized pieces are a lot easier to deal with. Utilize the sharp-edged Y-shaped peeler and a good amount of pressure to remove the squash skin. While you can prepare with the squash’s skin on, butternut skin isn’t excellent.

A note on that sticky film that may build up on your hands: It’s in fact a type of sap and can leave your hands feeling somehow milky and waxy at the same time. Too yucky for you? Use the cooking area towel to hold the squash in your non-dominant hand and peel it with your other one.

Action 3: Remove Seeds and Stringy Membranes.
The top half of your squash, or the neck, has no seeds. Set this piece aside. With the bottom, rounder half, use a sharp-edged spoon to remove the seeds and stringy membranes. Use a spoon that’s slightly thinner at the edge and simple to handle, such as a soup spoon. Dig the seeds and discard them.

If you’re making soup and want extra credit, simmer the seeds with some veggie or chicken stock before you add them to the rest of your soup components for an extra squashy (that’s a good thing) batch.

Step 4: Slice, Dice, Chop, or Spiralize.
Deal with one manageable half of your squash at a time, using your sharp, heavy knife to slice the squash into pieces of your wanted size (bite-sized pieces work for a lot of usages).

Use your freshly honed butternut-cutting abilities anywhere a huge one surface. However know that these same concepts– manageable parts and the right, sharp tools– make any kitchen job simple to squash.

Frequently Asked Questions.
How do you make butternut squash softer to cut and peel?
One fast method to make butternut squash softer and simpler to cut is to make little holes in the squash with a fork or pairing knife, then put it in the microwave for about two minutes. After you take it out of the microwave continue to cut then peel the squash. This trick will develop a softer squash exterior that you can more quickly cut into.

Do I require to peel butternut squash?
You do not need to peel butternut squash, however, the majority of people choose it to be peeled as the skin does not generally taste terrific. It has a chewy texture that does not always soften drastically when cooking. So, although the skin is edible and can be left on, it truly simply comes down to what texture you choose.

What are a couple of ways to eat butternut squash?
Butternut squash can be roasted, baked, and microwaved. If you are still figuring out how to utilize your chopped-up butternut squash, we advise the crowd-favorite butternut squash bake with wild rice dish, which is best for household supper night. Butternut squash likewise sets incredibly as a side to any main meat meal.

Find out more: 49 Delicious Squash Recipes to Cook in Any Season.
How do you pick a ripe butternut squash?
To select a ripe butternut squash at the grocery store, it is necessary to take a look at its color, texture, skin, and weight. If the butternut squash you pick up has any discoloration, or brown spots, is glossy, or has cuts on it, it is best to leave it there. Look for a solid beige squash with a matte finish. If it has soft areas, then it is not ripe anymore. Additionally, you desire a squash that feels heavy in your hands, not one that feels lighter than it should.