Hokkaido or butternut squash

Description

Hokkaido or butternut squash are varieties with a sweet-nutty flavor and creamy texture; hokkaido is smaller, orange with edible skin, while butternut has an elongated shape and beige, easy-to-peel skin. Both provide a lot of beta-carotene (vitamin A), vitamin C, fiber, potassium, and antioxidants with low calorie content, which supports vision, immunity, digestion, and heart health. In the kitchen, they are versatile: suitable for cream soups, purées, baking, roasted sides, gnocchi, risotto, curry, and desserts; hokkaido is convenient for baking with the skin, while butternut yields a velvety purée. Store in a cool, dry, and dark place; unpeeled, it can last several weeks to a few months, cut in the fridge for 2–4 days, and cooked portions can be frozen.