Roasted Butternut Squash Bharta | Squash Mash with Indian Spices

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Delight in a hearty serving of roasted Butternut Squash Bharta, a comforting and aromatic Indian squash recipe that blends roasted squash with spices.

You will also love Baingan Bharta [Eggplant mash], and Shalgam Bharta [Turnip Mash].

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About Butternut Squash Indian
Indian Recipe Butternut Squash Ingredients
How to make Butternut Squash Recipe Indian
Storage
Tips
FAQ's
Serve Indian Squash Recipe With
Roasted Butternut Squash Bharta | Squash Mash with Indian Spices
Indian Squash Recipes

About Butternut Squash Indian

Butternut Squash Bharta is a delightful and flavorful Indian dish made from roasted butternut squash. "Bharta" is a term in Indian cuisine that refers to dishes where ingredients are mashed or pureed. In this case, roasted butternut squash is mashed and combined with a blend of aromatic spices to create a delicious and comforting vegetarian side dish.

Butternut Squash Bharta is a perfect example of how Indian cuisine can transform simple ingredients into a flavorful and satisfying dish. It can be enjoyed with flatbreads like naan or roti, as well as with rice. This dish combines the natural sweetness of butternut squash with the rich and aromatic spices of Indian cooking, creating a unique and delightful flavor profile.

Indian Recipe Butternut Squash Ingredients

Here's a brief description of the ingredients used in Roasted Butternut Squash Bharta:

Butternut Squash: A sweet and nutty-flavored winter squash with orange flesh, providing a rich and creamy base for the dish.
Oil: Typically vegetable, peanut, or olive oil is used for sautéing and roasting.
Onion: Finely chopped and sautéed to add a savory base and texture to the bharta.
Garlic and Ginger: These aromatic ingredients add depth of flavor and fragrance to the dish.
Green Chilies: Provide heat and spice; the quantity can be adjusted to suit your preferred spice level.
Cumin Seeds: Sizzled in oil to release their warm and earthy flavor.
Spices: Turmeric powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and garam masala are used to season and spice up the bharta.
Salt: Used to enhance the overall flavor.
Fresh Cilantro: Adds a burst of freshness and a touch of green to garnish the dish.
Lemon Juice: Optional but adds a tangy note for balance and brightness.

These ingredients come together to create a delicious and well-balanced Roasted Butternut Squash Bharta.

How to make Butternut Squash Recipe Indian

Roasted Butternut Squash Bharta is a delicious and flavorful Indian dish that combines the earthy sweetness of roasted butternut squash with a medley of aromatic spices. Here's a simple recipe to make this delightful dish:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Start by roasting the butternut squash. Cut it in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and brush the cut sides with a little oil. Place the squash halves on a baking sheet, cut-side down, and roast in the preheated oven for about 45-60 minutes, or until the squash is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Once the squash is roasted, remove it from the oven, let it cool slightly, and then scoop out the flesh. Mash the roasted butternut squash and set it aside.
In a large pan or skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped green chilies. Cook for a couple of minutes until the raw smell disappears.
Add tomatoes and cook for a few minutes until tomatoes are soft.
Add the turmeric powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and garam masala. Stir well to combine the spices with the onion mixture.
Now, add the mashed roasted butternut squash to the pan. Stir everything together and cook for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Season with salt to taste and continue cooking for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Note: Add water to adjust the consistency of bharta as per liking.
Taste the bharta and adjust the seasoning or spice level as needed. You can add a little lemon juice for some tanginess if desired.
Garnish the roasted butternut squash bharta with fresh cilantro leaves.
Serve hot with naan, roti, or rice.

This Roasted Butternut Squash Bharta is a comforting and wholesome dish that combines the nutty, sweet flavor of butternut squash with the rich and aromatic spices of Indian cuisine. Enjoy!

Storage

To store Butternut Squash Bharta, refrigerate any leftover bharta to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, but make sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving again.

Tips

Here are some tips to make a delicious Butternut Squash Bharta:

Roasting: Ensure that the butternut squash is roasted until it's soft and caramelized for the best flavor. You can also drizzle a little oil and season it before roasting.
Spice Level: Adjust the green chilies to your preferred spice level. If you like it milder, use fewer chilies, and if you prefer it spicier, add more.
Texture: The texture of the bharta can be adjusted to your liking. You can leave it slightly chunky or mash it until it's smooth, depending on your preference.
Serving: Butternut Squash Bharta pairs well with various Indian bread like naan, roti, or steamed rice. You can also serve it as a side dish alongside other Indian curries.
Garnish: Fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can brighten up the flavors and add freshness.
Reheating: When reheating leftovers, you may need to add a little water to maintain the desired consistency as the bharta can thicken in the refrigerator. Reheat it in a pan or microwave, stirring occasionally.

Enjoy your Butternut Squash Bharta, and you'll create a delicious and satisfying meal.

FAQ's

What is butternut squash called in India?

Butternut squash is not a native vegetable in India, so it does not have a traditional Indian name. It is generally referred to as "butternut squash" or "butternut pumpkin" when used in Indian recipes.

Is butternut good for diabetics?

Butternut squash can be a good option for diabetics when consumed in moderation. It is a low-glycemic vegetable, meaning it has a relatively low impact on blood sugar levels, and it provides essential nutrients like fiber and vitamins. However, portion control is important, as it still contains carbohydrates that can affect blood sugar if consumed in large amounts, and it's best to consult with a healthcare professional or dietitian for personalized dietary advice for diabetes management.

What do Americans call butternut squash?

In the United States, butternut squash is typically referred to simply as "butternut squash." It's a widely recognized and commonly used term for this sweet and nutty-flavored winter squash variety.

Is butternut squash the same as butternut pumpkin?

Yes, in many English-speaking regions, including the United States and some parts of Australia, "butternut squash" is often referred to as "butternut pumpkin." Both terms are used interchangeably to describe the same sweet and nutty-flavored winter squash variety known for its elongated, bell-like shape and orange flesh.