Maple-Bourbon Acorn Squash Purée
Indulge in the velvety richness of this Maple-Bourbon Acorn Squash Purée, a delightful side dish that combines the natural sweetness of roasted acorn squash with the caramel notes of maple syrup. This comforting recipe showcases the heartiness of autumn produce, making it perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners. Garnished with a hint of bourbon, this purée elevates traditional flavors to new culinary heights. Serve it warm alongside your favorite roasted meats or as a standalone vegetarian dish to impress your guests.
N/A
Servings
60
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
acorn squash
1 (2 lb, rinsed and halved)
water
2 (tablespoons)
unsalted butter
2 (tablespoons, cut into pieces)
maple syrup
2 (tablespoons)
salt
to taste
pepper
1/8 (teaspoon)
bourbon (optional)
1 (tablespoon, for flavor)
Instructions
1
Begin by preheating your microwave and carefully cutting the acorn squash in half lengthwise. Use a sturdy knife to ensure a clean cut through the tough skin.
2
Scrape out the seeds and fibrous center with a spoon, making sure to leave the flesh intact.
3
Place the squash halves cut side down in a microwave-safe 10-inch glass pie plate. Pour the water into the plate around the squash.
4
Cover the dish tightly with microwave-safe plastic wrap, ensuring to vent one side to allow steam to escape.
5
Microwave on high for 12 minutes, carefully turning the dish a quarter turn twice during cooking to ensure even heating. The squash should be tender when pierced with a fork.
6
After microwaving, let the squash stand covered for 5 minutes to further soften.
7
Once cooled, protecting your hands with a double thickness of paper towel, scoop out the softened squash flesh and transfer it to a food processor.
8
Add the unsalted butter and maple syrup to the food processor. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of bourbon.
9
Blend the mixture until smooth and creamy, pausing to scrape down the sides as needed.
10
Season your purée with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the flavors to your preference.
11
Serve immediately, garnished with a drizzle of maple syrup or a sprinkle of additional pepper, if desired.
Nutrition Information
2.5g
Fat
9g
Carbs
0.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Maple-Bourbon Acorn Squash Purée?
It is a velvety side dish that combines roasted acorn squash with the caramel notes of maple syrup and a hint of bourbon.
How many calories are in this recipe?
There are 60 calories per serving.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this dish is categorized as a vegetarian side dish.
What size acorn squash should I use?
The recipe calls for one acorn squash weighing approximately 2 lbs.
How do I prepare the squash before cooking?
Rinse the squash, cut it in half lengthwise, and scrape out the seeds and fibrous center.
What is the primary cooking method for the squash?
The squash is cooked in a microwave.
How long does the squash need to be microwaved?
It should be microwaved on high for 12 minutes.
Should the dish be covered during microwaving?
Yes, cover it tightly with microwave-safe plastic wrap and vent one side.
How much water is added to the cooking dish?
Add 2 tablespoons of water to the glass pie plate around the squash.
What should I do halfway through microwaving?
Turn the dish a quarter turn twice during cooking to ensure even heating.
How do I know when the squash is finished cooking?
The squash is done when it is tender when pierced with a fork.
Is there a resting period after microwaving?
Yes, let the squash stand covered for 5 minutes after microwaving.
How do I remove the flesh from the squash?
Use a spoon to scoop out the softened flesh, using paper towels to protect your hands if it is still hot.
What appliance is used to make the purée smooth?
A food processor is used to blend the mixture until smooth and creamy.
How much butter is required?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter cut into pieces.
How much maple syrup should I add?
The recipe requires 2 tablespoons of maple syrup.
Is the bourbon mandatory for this recipe?
No, the bourbon is listed as an optional ingredient for extra flavor.
How much bourbon is suggested if I choose to use it?
The recipe suggests 1 tablespoon of bourbon.
What seasonings are used in the purée?
Salt (to taste) and 1/8 teaspoon of pepper are used for seasoning.
What is the total carbohydrate content?
Each serving contains 9g of carbohydrates.
How much fat does this dish contain?
The dish contains 2.5g of fat.
Does this recipe provide protein?
Yes, it contains 0.5g of protein.
What can I use as a garnish?
You can garnish the dish with a drizzle of maple syrup or a sprinkle of additional pepper.
What occasions is this dish best for?
It is perfect for holiday gatherings like Thanksgiving or cozy autumn family dinners.
Can I serve this with meat?
Yes, it is recommended to serve warm alongside roasted meats.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 7 total ingredients, including the optional bourbon.
What type of butter is recommended?
Unsalted butter is recommended.
How should the squash be placed in the microwave dish?
The squash halves should be placed cut side down.
Is this a heart-healthy dish?
The dish is low in calories and fat, making it a lighter side option.
What are the primary flavor profiles of this dish?
The primary flavors are sweetness from the squash and maple syrup, combined with richness from the butter and bourbon.