Carla Halls Candied Acorn Squash Food

CARLA HALL'S CANDIED ACORN SQUASH

Steps:

• Preheat oven to 400°F
• Rub the inside of the squashes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt
• Place on a parchment-lined sheet pan cut-side down
• Bake for 30-40 minutes or until soft
• While the squash bake, prepare the brown sugar mixture
• In a small pot, combine the butter, brown sugar, salt and spices over low heat
• Heat until butter melts and sugar dissolves
• Add the rum, if using
• When the squash halves are ready, flip them over and drizzle the brown sugar mixture on the inside cavity
• Place the pan in the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes or until brown and bubbling

CANDIED ACORN SQUASH

Steps:

• Place both halves of the squash cut side up on a microwave-safe plate or dish. Put 2 tablespoons of butter, and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar into the cavity of each half.
• Cook for 8 to 10 minutes in the microwave on full power. Rotate the squash a couple of times to ensure even cooking. When the flesh is soft, scoop out soft flesh with the sugar and butter, and place it in a bowl. Mash it a little to blend the ingredients. Serve in a bowl, or your could even serve it in the shells.

CANDIED ACORN SQUASH SLICES

Steps:

• Preheat oven to 350°. Cut squash in half lengthwise; remove and discard seeds. Cut each half crosswise into 1/2-in. slices; discard ends. Arrange squash in a shallow baking pan; cover with foil. Bake until just tender, 25-30 minutes. , Combine sugar and butter; spread over squash. Bake, uncovered, 15-20 minutes longer, basting occasionally.