I love cooking butternut, it’s such a versatile and delicious vegetable. However, sometimes I find myself short on time and need a quick and easy method to cook it. That’s when I discovered the magic of cooking butternut in the microwave. It’s a time-saving technique that still yields flavorful and tender results. In this article, I will share with you my step-by-step process of cooking butternut in the microwave.
Table of Contents
Gather your Ingredients and Tools
The first step in cooking butternut in the microwave is to gather all the necessary ingredients and tools. Here’s what you’ll need:
– Butternut squash
First and foremost, you’ll need a fresh butternut squash. Look for one that is firm, with a smooth skin, and without any soft spots. A small to medium-sized squash should be enough for a single serving.
– Sharp knife
A sharp knife is essential for cutting the butternut squash into manageable pieces. Be careful while handling the knife and make sure to keep your fingers away from the blade.
– Cutting board
To ensure stability and safety while cutting the butternut squash, place it on a cutting board. Choose a board that is sturdy and won’t slide around your countertop.
– Microwave-safe dish
You’ll also need a microwave-safe dish to cook the butternut squash in. Make sure the dish is large enough to accommodate the size of the squash pieces.
– Seasonings (optional)
If you want to add some extra flavor to your butternut squash, consider using seasonings such as salt, pepper, cinnamon, or nutmeg. These will enhance the natural sweetness of the squash.
Cut and Prepare the Butternut Squash
Now that you have everything ready, it’s time to cut and prepare the butternut squash for the microwave. Follow these steps:
– Wash the squash
Start by washing the butternut squash under running water to remove any dirt or debris from the skin.
– Cut off the ends
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut off both ends of the butternut squash. This will create a stable base for further cutting.
– Peel the skin
Next, peel the skin off the squash using your knife or a vegetable peeler. Make sure to remove all the skin, as it can become tough and chewy after microwaving.
– Cut the squash in half
Once the skin is removed, cut the butternut squash in half vertically. This will make it easier to remove the seeds and cut it into smaller pieces.
– Scoop out the seeds
Using a spoon or your hands, scoop out the seeds and stringy fibers from the center of the squash. You can discard these or save them for later use.
– Cut into smaller pieces
Now, cut each half of the butternut squash into smaller, equally-sized pieces. This will ensure that they cook evenly in the microwave.
Cook the Butternut Squash in the Microwave
With the butternut squash prepared, it’s time to cook it in the microwave. Follow these steps for best results:
– Arrange the squash in a microwave-safe dish
Place the cut pieces of butternut squash in a microwave-safe dish, making sure they are evenly spread out without overlapping.
– Cover the dish
Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap. This will help create steam and cook the squash evenly.
– Microwave on high
Set your microwave to high power and cook the butternut squash for about 5-8 minutes, depending on the size and quantity of your squash pieces. Check for doneness by poking a fork or knife into the thickest part of the squash. If it goes in easily, it’s cooked!
– Let it rest
Once cooked, carefully remove the dish from the microwave and let the butternut squash rest for a few minutes. This will help it retain its moisture and allow for easier handling.
– Season to taste
If desired, season the cooked butternut squash with salt, pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg, or any other seasonings of your choice. The flavors will infuse nicely into the tender squash.
– Serve and enjoy
Now, your microwave-cooked butternut squash is ready to be served! You can enjoy it as a side dish, add it to salads or soups, or use it as a base for other recipes. The possibilities are endless!
Final Thoughts
Cooking butternut squash in the microwave is a quick and easy method that doesn’t compromise on taste or texture. With just a few simple steps, you can have perfectly cooked butternut squash in no time. Whether you’re in a hurry or simply prefer the convenience of using the microwave, give this method a try. It’s sure to become one of your go-to ways of cooking butternut squash. Enjoy!
