Kuri squash really is a blessing to homesteaders: it is versatile in the ways in which you can prepare it to eat, it is relatively easy to grow {even in smaller gardens}, and it stores quite well.
It is an heirloom winter squash from Japan and can be grown probably in any temperate climate. Just like pretty much any squash, it likes soil that is well-drained and high in organic matter. A safe pH range is anywhere from about 6.0 to 7.0, although I have seen people mention that it can do ok anywhere from 5.5 to 7.5. It can tolerate partial shade (!!!) and takes about 95 to 115 days until it is ready for harvest. Imagine how beautiful this squash would look in a Three Sisters garden, with heirloom corn and beans! *swoon*
My favourite ways to eat kuri squash is in pies {can replace pumpkin in pumpkin pie recipes}, muffins, and soups. I have linked to a few nifty recipes below, so check them out and give them a try, and make sure to put kuri squash on your wishlist for next year's garden!
Sláinte!
Laurel
Baked Kuri Squash & Apple Maple Pudding
Baked Kuri Squash {can be used as a pie filling}
Curry-Kuri Squash Soup
Kuri Squash Soup with Cranberry Compote
Kuri Squash Pasta Sauce
Veggie Quinoa Bake with Kuri Squash
Kuri Squash Gratin
Spiced Kuri Squash & Chicken Stew
Braised Short Ribs & Kuri Squash Orzo
Kuri Squash Lobster Bisque
Roasted Kuri Squash Seeds
Kuri Squash Stuffed with Shiitakes and Almonds
Oh thank you for these!
ReplyDelete~*~cammie~*~
OMG those recipes look so good!!! I had no idea about the Kuri! thanks! :D
ReplyDeleteYou are both welcome! :)
ReplyDeleteAnd Medusae, perhaps you would like to try it in your garden next year...it does well in our area! If interested, let me know and I will send you some of the seeds that I collected. ;)
MMMM those are some great recipes thanks =^)
ReplyDeleteYou are welcome Permie! :) Have you had a stab at growing kuri squash yet?
ReplyDeleteMmm, roasted seeds are so good - and so plentiful in squash too!
ReplyDeleteIndeed! :D
ReplyDelete