Spiced Candied Squash Delight
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Spiced Candied Squash Delight, a traditional Latin American dessert that's both sweet and savory. This enchanting dish pairs the natural sweetness of squash or pumpkin with the warm spices of cinnamon and cloves, all simmered in an aromatic syrup. Perfect for sharing, this dessert can be served warm with a touch of rich queso fresco or fresh mozzarella cheese, creating a satisfying balance of flavors. Bring a taste of tradition to your table with this beautifully vibrant treat.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Medium squash or small pumpkin
2 lbs (Organic if possible, washed, halved, seeds removed, and cut into chunks)
Panela sugar cane or brown sugar
1 lb (Broken into chunks)
Cinnamon sticks
5 (Whole)
Cloves
5 (Whole)
Allspice berries
3 (Whole)
Water
3 cups (N/A)
Queso fresco or fresh mozzarella cheese
as needed (Slices for serving)
Instructions
1
Begin by rinsing the squash thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt. Cut it in half and carefully scoop out the seeds and fibrous membranes using a spoon.
2
Slice the squash into medium-sized chunks, ensuring they are roughly equal for even cooking. Set these aside.
3
In a large pot, combine the prepared squash, chunks of panela sugar (or brown sugar), cinnamon sticks, cloves, and whole allspice berries.
4
Pour in three cups of water, stir gently to mix, and place the pot over medium heat. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil, then cover and let it cook for about 30 minutes.
5
After 30 minutes, remove the lid and reduce the heat slightly to maintain a low simmer. Continue cooking for an additional hour, stirring occasionally, until the syrup thickens and coats the squash.
6
Once the squash is tender and the syrup has reached a honey-like consistency, remove the pot from heat. Let it cool slightly before serving.
7
To serve, ladle the warm candied squash into bowls and top with a slice of fresh queso fresco or mozzarella cheese, enhancing the dish's flavor profile.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spiced Candied Squash Delight?
Spiced Candied Squash Delight is a traditional Latin American dessert where squash or pumpkin is simmered in an aromatic spiced sugar syrup.
What is the traditional name for this recipe?
In many Latin American countries, this dish is traditionally known as Dulce de Zapallo.
What type of squash should I use?
You should use a medium-sized squash or a small pumpkin, weighing approximately two pounds.
Can I substitute panela sugar?
Yes, if you cannot find panela sugar cane chunks, you can use one pound of brown sugar as a substitute.
How do I prepare the squash for cooking?
Wash the squash, cut it in half, remove the seeds and fibrous membranes, and then slice it into medium-sized chunks.
Do I need to peel the squash?
The recipe suggests cutting the squash into chunks; typically, the skin is left on to help the pieces maintain their shape during the long simmering process.
What spices are used in the syrup?
The syrup is flavored with five cinnamon sticks, five whole cloves, and three whole allspice berries.
How much water is required for this recipe?
You will need three cups of water to create the syrup base.
What is the first step in the cooking process?
Combine the squash, sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and allspice in a large pot with water and bring it to a gentle boil.
How long should the pot remain covered while cooking?
After reaching a boil, cover the pot and let the mixture cook for about 30 minutes.
Why is the lid removed after 30 minutes?
The lid is removed to allow the liquid to evaporate and reduce into a thick, honey-like syrup.
How long does the squash simmer uncovered?
The squash should simmer uncovered for an additional hour.
How do I know when the dessert is ready?
It is ready when the squash is tender and the syrup has thickened to a honey-like consistency that coats the pieces.
Should I stir the mixture during cooking?
Yes, you should stir the mixture occasionally while it simmers to ensure even coating and prevent sticking.
How should this dish be served?
Ladle the warm candied squash into bowls and top with a slice of fresh queso fresco or mozzarella cheese.
What kind of cheese goes best with candied squash?
Queso fresco is traditional, but fresh mozzarella cheese is a great alternative that balances the sweetness.
Is this recipe considered a dessert or a side dish?
It is primarily served as a traditional dessert.
Can I use ground spices instead of whole spices?
While whole spices are recommended for a clear syrup and traditional flavor, you can use ground spices if necessary, though it may cloud the syrup.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the primary ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.
Is this recipe vegan?
The candied squash itself is vegan; to keep the entire dish vegan, simply omit the cheese topping or use a vegan cheese alternative.
What is panela sugar?
Panela is unrefined whole cane sugar typical of Central and Latin America, sold in solid blocks.
Can I serve this dish cold?
Yes, while often served warm, it is also delicious when chilled in the refrigerator.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 7 main ingredients: squash, panela, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, water, and cheese.
What is the flavor profile of this dish?
It is a sweet and savory dish with warm, earthy notes from the cinnamon and cloves.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover candied squash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Can I use butternut squash for this recipe?
Yes, butternut squash is an excellent choice for this recipe due to its natural sweetness and texture.
Does the syrup become very thick?
Yes, by the end of the cooking process, the water and sugar reduce into a thick, honey-like glaze.
Is this recipe suitable for the fall season?
Absolutely, the use of squash and warm spices makes it a perfect fall comfort food.
Should I remove the spices before serving?
It is recommended to remove the whole cinnamon sticks, cloves, and allspice berries before serving to make eating easier.
Is it necessary to use organic squash?
While not mandatory, using organic squash is suggested if possible for the best flavor and quality.