Senator Al Frankens Wife Frannis Pureed Butternut Squash Food

CARAMELIZED BUTTERNUT SQUASH

Steps:

• Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
• Cut off and discard the ends of each butternut squash. Peel the squash, cut them in half lengthwise, and remove the seeds. Cut the squash into 1 1/4 to 1 1/2-inch cubes and place them on a baking sheet. Add the melted butter, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. With clean hands, toss all the ingredients together and spread in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roast for 45 to 55 minutes, until the squash is tender and the glaze begins to caramelize. While roasting, turn the squash a few times with a spatula, to be sure it browns evenly. Taste for seasonings and serve hot.

BUTTERNUT SQUASH PUREE

Steps:

• Halve the squash lengthwise and remove the seeds and strings. Rub the insides with 2 tablespoons softened butter; season with salt and pepper. Place on a roasting pan, skin side down. Bake in a preheated 350-degree oven for 30 to 40 minutes or until fork tender. Remove the squash from the oven, scoop out the flesh and place in a food processor. Add the orange zest, honey and remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Puree until smooth. Add a pinch of salt and cinnamon. Pulse a few times to incorporate.

WEANING RECIPE: ROASTED BUTTERNUT SQUASH & GARLIC PURéE

Steps:

• Heat oven to 200C/180C fan/ gas 6. Place the butternut squash cut-side up on a baking sheet. Cover with foil and roast in the oven for 45 mins, put the garlic on the tray and roast for another 15 mins or until you can easily slip a knife through the flesh of the squash. Take the garlic out if necessary.
• Allow to cool a little, then scoop the flesh out of the squash with a spoon, discarding the seeds and skin. Squeeze the garlic out of the skin, discarding any tough bits and purée the garlic pulp together with the squash in a food processor.
• You can add a knob of butter, or a splash of water or milk to loosen the purée.

PUREED BUTTERNUT SQUASH

Steps:

• Cut the squash into 2-inch chunks and place in a large pot. Add water to just cover and place over high heat. Cook until the squash is just barely tender, 25 to 40 minutes. (Do not overcook or the squash will become watery.) Drain well.
• Transfer the squash to a bowl and use an electric mixer to beat until smooth. Beat in the butter. Beat in the sugar. Season to taste with salt and pepper and stir in the nutmeg.