Squash Season

I’ve been so busy with classes that I haven’t had a lot of time to post. I’m finally catching my breath again and spending more time in the kitchen. The beautiful winter squashes coming in to the Co-op are calling my name.


Winter squashes fresh from the field

I’ve been working on collecting photos of the winter squashes we have coming in and writing descriptions of them; I’ll post that at the next available opportunity!

In the meantime, here's a use for winter squash: It's incredibly satisfying served over brown rice with a drizzle of toasted sesame oil. It’s even better reheated the next day.

Happy autumn! Hope to see you at the Annual Member Meeting and Harvest Celebration!

Curried Yellow Split-Peas with Winter Squash and Raisins
1 Tbs. oil
1 large onion, peeled and coarsely chopped
2 Tbs. freshly grated ginger
2 ribs celery, thinly sliced
1 ½ pounds butternut or other winter squash, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
2 cups yellow split peas
1/3 cup raisins
6 cups water
1 Tbs. curry powder
¾ fennel seeds
¾ tsp. cinnamon
1 bay leaf
1 tsp. salt, or to taste
Toasted sesame oil for drizzling

In a large soup pot, heat the oil and sauté the onion and ginger for 2 minutes. Stir in all of the remaining ingredients except the salt. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer, covered, until the peas are very soft, about 45 minutes.
Add salt, remove the bay leaf, and simmer for a few moments.
Serve over brown rice with a drizzle of toasted sesame oil.
Serves 6-8.

Adapted from Lorna Sass’ Complete Vegetarian Kitchen


Curried yellow split peas with winter squash