Winter Squash With Spiced Butter

Ingredients for Winter Squash With Spiced Butter

• 110g (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature

• 1 tablespoon crushed dried rose petals (optional)

• 1 teaspoon finely grated lime zest

• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

• 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

• 1/2 teaspoons ground coriander

• 1/4 teaspoons freshly grated nutmeg

• 1/4 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper

• 1/4 teaspoons ground cardamom

• 1/4 teaspoons ground cumin

• Kosher salt

• 1.8kg assorted small winter squash (such as acorn, kabocha, or delicata)

• Kosher salt

• 110g pomegranate seeds

• Ingredient info: Dried rose petals are available at Middle Eastern markets and kalustyans.com.

Mix all ingredients except salt in a small bowl until lime juice is incorporated. Season with salt. Cover; keep in a cool place. DO AHEAD: Spiced butter can be made 1 week ahead. Roll into logs, wrap in parchment paper, and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.

Trim ends of acorn and kabocha squash and cut in half through the stem end. Scrape out seeds and place squash cut side down on a cutting board (do not peel). Cut halves crosswise into 1/2" slices. If using delicata squash, cut crosswise into 1/2" rings; scrape out seeds.

Fill a large wide pot with water to a depth of 1/2" and add a pinch of salt; bring to a boil. Add squash slices; reduce heat to mediumlow. Cover and steam, adding more water as needed to maintain 1/2" of water at bottom of pot, until squash is tender but not falling apart, 20-25 minutes.

Carefully transfer squash slices to a large platter (some squash at bottom of pot may be too soft; save for another purpose4) and season with salt.

Reduce water in pot over high heat (or add hot water) to measure 180ml . Remove from heat and whisk in spiced butter, 1 tablespoon ful at a time, to form a rich, glossy sauce. Season to taste with salt. Drizzle spiced butter over squash. Top with pomegranate seeds.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.