How Do You Cook Cushaw Squash

Cushaw squash is a winter squash that you can cook by roasting, boiling, steaming, or baking it.

 

If you’ve ever stared at a big, crooked-neck cushaw squash at the farmers market and wondered how to cook it, you’re in the right place.

 

Learning how to cook cushaw squash is actually easier than it looks, even though its size and shape can seem a little intimidating at first.

 

In this post, we’ll walk through exactly how to cook cushaw squash step by step, plus a few tasty ways to enjoy it once it’s ready.

 

Let’s get cooking.

How Do You Cook Cushaw Squash?

You cook cushaw squash by treating it like most other winter squash, so the method you choose mostly depends on how you plan to use it.

 

The flesh is sweet, slightly nutty, and less stringy than pumpkin, which makes it a favorite for pies, soups, and casseroles.

 

Here are the most reliable ways to cook it:

1. Roasting Cushaw Squash

Roasting is the best way to cook cushaw squash if you want deep, caramelized flavor.

 

Start by washing the squash, then cut it in half lengthwise with a sturdy chef’s knife.

 

Scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp, then rub the flesh with a little olive oil and salt.

 

Place the halves cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F for about 45 to 60 minutes, until a fork slides in easily.

 

Once it cools, scoop out the flesh and mash it or use it in any recipe that calls for cooked squash.

2. Boiling or Steaming Cushaw Squash

If you want a faster, softer result, boiling or steaming works great.

 

Peel the squash, cut it into cubes, and remove the seeds.

 

Boil the cubes in salted water for 15 to 20 minutes, or steam them for about 20 minutes until tender.

 

This method is perfect when you’re cooking cushaw squash for soups, purees, or baby food.

3. Baking Cushaw Squash Whole

For the least effort, you can bake the whole squash without cutting it.

 

Prick the skin a few times with a fork, place it on a baking sheet, and bake at 350°F for about an hour.

 

Once it’s soft, let it cool, then slice it open and scoop out the seeds and flesh.

 

This is a lifesaver when you want to cook cushaw squash but don’t feel like wrestling with a big knife.

4. Cooking Cushaw Squash in the Instant Pot

Yes, you can cook cushaw squash in a pressure cooker too.

 

Cut it into chunks, add a cup of water to the pot, and cook on high pressure for about 12 to 15 minutes.

 

This is one of the quickest ways to cook cushaw squash when you’re short on time.

Prepping Cushaw Squash Before You Cook It

Prepping is half the battle when you cook cushaw squash, especially because of its hard skin.

 

Here’s how to make it easy:

1. Choose a Ripe Squash

A ripe cushaw squash has a hard, dull skin and feels heavy for its size.

 

Avoid any with soft spots or cracks, since those won’t cook up well.

2. Cut It Safely

Microwave the whole squash for two to three minutes to soften the skin before cutting.

 

Then use a sharp knife and cut on a stable surface, rocking the blade through rather than forcing it.

3. Remove Seeds and Strings

Scoop out the seeds with a spoon, just like you would with a pumpkin.

 

Don’t toss the seeds, though, because they roast up into a crunchy snack in about 15 minutes.

Delicious Ways to Enjoy Cooked Cushaw Squash

Once you know how to cook cushaw squash, the fun part is figuring out how to eat it.

 

Here are some favorites:

1. Cushaw Pie

Cushaw pie is a southern classic, and it’s basically pumpkin pie’s sweeter, creamier cousin.

 

Just mash your cooked squash and use it in place of pumpkin puree in any pie recipe.

2. Cushaw Soup

Puree cooked cushaw squash with broth, onions, and a splash of cream for a silky, comforting soup.

 

A pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon takes it to the next level.

3. Roasted Cushaw Cubes

Toss cubes of raw cushaw squash with oil, salt, and herbs, then roast at 425°F for about 25 minutes.

 

It’s a simple, healthy side dish that pairs with almost anything.

4. Cushaw Casserole

Mash cooked cushaw squash with butter, brown sugar, and eggs, then bake it like a sweet potato casserole.

 

Top it with pecans and you’ve got a holiday-worthy dish.

5. Freeze It for Later

Cook cushaw squash, mash it, and freeze it in two-cup portions.

 

That way you always have cooked squash ready for pies, soups, or muffins whenever the craving hits.

So, How Do You Cook Cushaw Squash?

You cook cushaw squash by roasting, boiling, steaming, baking, or pressure cooking it, depending on the texture and flavor you’re after.

 

Roasting brings out the sweetest, most caramelized flavor, while boiling and steaming are faster and great for purees and soups.

 

No matter which method you choose, prepping the squash safely and removing the seeds first makes the whole process much smoother.

 

Now that you know how to cook cushaw squash, grab one at your local market and give it a try.

 

Your kitchen is about to smell amazing.