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Simple Braised Butternut Squash

Close-up of tender, glazed cubes of braised butternut squash seasoned with fresh thyme leaves.
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A straightforward recipe for tender, flavorful braised butternut squash, perfect as a comforting fall side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium butternut squash (about 3 lbs)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup vegetable or chicken stock
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine or apple cider
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Peel the butternut squash, scoop out the seeds, and cut the flesh into 1-inch cubes.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot and stir to coat with the onion and oil.
  5. Pour in the stock, white wine (or cider), maple syrup, thyme, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together gently.
  6. Bring the liquid to a simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and let it braise for 25 to 35 minutes.
  7. Check the squash after 25 minutes; it should be fork-tender but still hold its shape. If it is not tender, continue cooking, checking every 5 minutes.
  8. Remove the lid for the last 5 minutes of cooking if you prefer a slightly thicker sauce.
  9. Serve warm as a side dish for holiday meals or as a main component for a vegetarian meal.

Notes

  • For a deeper flavor, use homemade chicken stock in the braising liquid.
  • If you prefer a sweeter dish, increase the maple syrup to 3 tablespoons.
  • To check for tenderness, pierce a piece with a fork; it should offer little resistance.
  • This dish pairs well with roasted chicken or pork loin.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbycarla.com/braised-butternut-recipe-simple-tender-squash/