Food:

Curried Kabocha Squash serves 6-8

Inspired by Nourishing Traditions

4 T. butter (local, Liberty Heights Fresh)

2 lbs. kabocha squash, peeled seeds removed (optional) and chopped into 1 inch pieces (farmers market)

1 large purple onion, chopped (farmers market)

1 large yellow bell pepper, chopped or minced (farmers market)

2 c. carrots, sliced (farmers market)

1-2 c. tomatoes, sliced in half (my garden)

1 chili pepper, stemmed & seeds removed (farmers market)

2 T. each ginger and garlic, minced (farmers market)

2 T. turmeric, grated (not local, I find mine at the ethnic market)

real salt

1 c. homemade veggie stock

1 1/2 c. Drake Family Farm Goat Yogurt

1 bunch cilantro, chopped (farmers market)

6-8 scallions, chopped for garnish (farmers market)

Directions:

1. Start by melting the butter over medium heat in your favorite pot. Add the onions and some salt, saute until softened (about 8-15 min).

2. Next add the kabocha, carrots, tomatoes, bell peppers, chili pepper, ginger, garlic, turmeric and a little bit of real salt. Mix well, then add the veggie stock and goat yogurt. Bring to a boil then turn down to a simmer until tender, about 30-45 min.

3. When the squash if fork tender pull your pot off the heat and mix in cilantro and garnish with scallions. EAT!

To Serve: If you are staying true to the Eat Local Challenge serve the Curried Kabocha over sautéed greens. If not, serve over grain of choice, I like millet. Top with a dollop of yogurt!

Nutrition:

Squash- Winter squash provides carotenoids and vitamin C plus potassium and fiber, it is also higher nutritionally than summer squash. Winter squash and other deep orange veggies are especially effective in preventing lung cancer. American Indians valued the seeds of both squash and pumpkins for various aliments, but the pulp also has pharmacological properties, notably anticancer carotenoids. (Nourishing Traditions)

Love:

Kabocha squash is by far my favorite winter squash, I love their bright orange flesh and creamy texture not to mention it is so versatile. Every year at this time I stock up on them at the farmers market, if you store them in a dry cool place they will last all winter. This was the perfect one pot dish for dinner all week during the Eat Local Challenge Week if you are staying true to the challenge omit the turmeric. It is warm, comforting and easy to reheat after a long day at work and gets better over time. ENJOY!