Butter Squash Fries Recipe

This delightful recipe for butter squash fries offers a flavorful and healthier twist to traditional fries. A tempting alternative, it utilizes the naturally sweet and nutty flavor of butter squash to create a deliciously crispy and satisfying snack or side dish. This dish is further enhanced by a blend of aromatic spices that bring out the squash's natural goodness. With a preparation approach that ensures ultimate crispiness, these fries are perfect for any occasion. The baking method significantly reduces the amount of oil needed, making this both a lighter and tasty option. Suitable for a range of diets, this recipe can easily be adapted with different seasonings or sauces. Whether enjoyed on their own or complemented with a dip, these fries are sure to impress both adults and children alike. With minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation, this dish is both accessible and appealing. Let's dive into making these scrumptious butter squash fries, an ideal treat for gatherings or quiet evenings at home.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 butter squash
2-3 tablespoons cooking oil

Spices

1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 pinch ground black pepper

Preparation Time

60 minutes (including preparation and cooking)

Step-by-Step Instruction

Begin by peeling the butter squash and cutting it into finger-sized sticks to resemble fries.
To enhance the crispness of the fries, soak the stick-shaped squash pieces in cold water for at least 30 minutes. For best results, leave them to soak overnight. This process helps to reduce the starch content, which results in crispier fries.
Once soaking is complete, drain the squash and ensure you dry them thoroughly. Excess water can cause the fries to steam rather than roast, preventing them from getting that desired crunch.
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Toss the dried squash sticks in cooking oil until they are evenly coated. The oil helps to crisp and color the fries beautifully.
Add the garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper to the squash, ensuring each piece is well-seasoned.
Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking, and evenly spread the seasoned squash sticks across the tray.
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, checking occasionally to ensure they are cooking evenly.
After 25 minutes, increase the oven temperature to 210°C (410°F) to further enhance the roasting effect, baking for an additional 2-4 minutes.
Remove the tray from the oven when the fries are golden and crispy.
Season with a little salt and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
For serving, pair the fries with your favorite dip, such as a yogurt and lemon honey sauce or mustard mayo for added flavor.
The fries are best enjoyed immediately while hot and crispy.
Feel free to experiment with spices according to taste, adding more heat or herbs if desired.
If you prefer a spicy version, consider adding a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

Tips

Ensure the squash pieces are cut to uniform sizes for even cooking.
Consider trying different seasonings like Italian herbs or curry powder for a unique twist.
Always dry the squash thoroughly after soaking to prevent steaming.
Test different cooking oils for varied flavors – olive oil can add a Mediterranean touch.

Nutritions

Per Serving: Approximately 120 calories, 2g protein, 5g fats, 18g carbs.

Variations

Use sweet potatoes or regular potatoes if butter squash is unavailable.
For a low-carb option, try using zucchini but reduce baking time to prevent sogginess.
Enhance protein by adding grated parmesan cheese as a topping before the final bake.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with roasted chicken or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Serve with a side of green salad or coleslaw for a refreshing contrast.
Enjoy as a snack with a variety of dips such as spicy tomato salsa, creamy aioli, or guacamole.

Best Places

Vegetable Delights - Known for its healthy, creative vegetarian dishes. Location: 123 Green St, New York, USA.
The Roasted Kitchen - Specializes in all things roasted including unique fries. Location: 45 Flame Blvd, London, United Kingdom.
Naturale Taste - Offers farm-fresh meals emphasizing organic vegetables. Location: 789 Eco Way, Toronto, Canada.
Herbivore Haven - Casual eatery offering plant-based fried foods. Location: 56 Vegan Lane, Sydney, Australia.
Sunkissed Café - Popular for its sun-soaked meals and refreshing drinks. Location: 34 Solar Ave, Cape Town, South Africa.
Crisp & Crunch - Known for innovative vegetable fries and hearty dips. Location: 78 Chew St, Chicago, USA.
Squash & Spice - Offers gourmet fries with exotic seasoning blends. Location: 42 Spice Road, Mumbai, India.
The Healthy Platter - Famed for its health-conscious snacks and sides. Location: 9 Wellness Dr, Wellington, New Zealand.
Farm Fresh Corner - Café focusing on the freshest seasonal produce. Location: 88 Orchard St, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Kraut & Fry - Known for pairing unique fry options with homemade krauts. Location: 28 Berlin Way, Berlin, Germany.