Winter Squash Curry

Warm up your winter with the delightful flavors of Winter Squash Curry. This comforting and versatile dish will make the perfect addition to your dinner table. While peeling and chopping the squash might seem challenging, the mouthwatering result is well worth the effort. The best part is that you can easily improvise and use various vegetables to suit your taste preferences. Let this recipe serve as a base for your culinary creativity!

Makes: 4 servings

Time: About 30 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 tablespoons neutral oil, like grapeseed or corn
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
• 1 1/2 pounds butternut or other winter squash, peeled and roughly chopped
• 1 cup coconut milk, stock, or water
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Chopped fresh cilantro leaves for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a pot or deep skillet with a tight-fitting lid, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, which usually takes about 5 minutes.
2. Add the curry powder and minced ginger, and continue cooking until the onion starts to brown slightly, approximately 2 minutes.
3. Add the roughly chopped squash and coconut milk to the pot. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, and bring the mixture to a boil. Then, cover the pot, lower the heat to low, and cook the ingredients, stirring occasionally, until the squash becomes tender, which typically takes around 20 minutes.
4. While cooking, periodically check the squash to ensure there is enough liquid. If the squash is tender but there is still too much liquid, remove the lid and turn the heat to medium-high until the curry thickens to your desired consistency.
5. Taste the curry and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving the dish hot or warm.

VARIATIONS:

• Winter Squash, Thai Style: Serve the curry over Steamed Sticky Rice, Thai Style, or wide rice noodles. To enhance the Thai flavors, add 1 minced fresh chile (like jalapeño or Thai) or hot red pepper flakes or cayenne along with the ginger. Additionally, include 2 tablespoons of peanut butter with the coconut milk.
• Winter Squash, Afghan Style: This variation pairs perfectly with butternut squash. Cook the onion until browned and replace the curry and ginger with 1 teaspoon of ground turmeric. Use stock or water as the liquid. Proceed with the recipe and serve the curry drizzled with Herbed Yogurt Sauce, with fresh or dried mint.
• Winter Squash with Mirin: Omit the curry and use a mixture of 1/2 cup water, 3 tablespoons soy sauce, and 3 tablespoons mirin (or half honey and half rice wine or white wine vinegar) instead of coconut milk. Proceed with the recipe and garnish with chopped scallions.

With these delightful variations, you can transform Winter Squash Curry into a dish bursting with diverse and unique flavors.

As you savor the aromatic and comforting Winter Squash Curry, you’ll be transported to a world of delightful flavors and warm indulgence. This versatile dish opens the door to endless possibilities, allowing you to explore various vegetables and spice combinations to suit your taste preferences. Whether you opt for the Thai-inspired version with its spicy kick or the Afghan-style variation featuring a tangy yogurt sauce, each bite will be a journey through the diverse cuisines of the world.

As you gather around the table with loved ones, sharing the joy of this delectable winter squash curry, you’ll create cherished memories that will linger long after the meal is over. So, embrace the winter season with this easy-to-make and heartwarming dish. Let the Winter Squash Curry be a comforting reminder that even in the coldest months, the warmth of good food and shared laughter can bring a sense of togetherness and joy. Enjoy every spoonful, and relish the comfort it brings to your heart and soul.