Acorn Squash Sambal Recipe
Aromatic and flavorful, this Acorn Squash Sambal combines earthy squash with a fiery kick of sambal paste, making it the perfect side dish for a Pan-Asian meal. The combination of ginger, garlic, and turmeric elevates the taste to new heights, offering a delightful balance of spice and warmth.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | 1 medium-sized |
| Sambal Paste | 3 teaspoons |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Fresh Ginger | 2-inch piece |
| Garlic Cloves | 3 cloves |
| Groundnut Oil | 3 teaspoons |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Asian
Course: Side Dish
Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Acorn Squash:
Begin by washing the acorn squash thoroughly. Cut the squash lengthwise into 1-2 inch thick slices. Keep the thick outer skin intact for added texture and flavor. Coat the squash pieces evenly with turmeric powder and salt to enhance their flavor. -
-
Cook the Squash:
Heat the groundnut oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, place the squash pieces in the pan. Allow them to cook for about 5 minutes, then turn the pieces over to ensure they cook evenly on all sides. -
Prepare the Ginger-Garlic Paste:
While the squash cooks, peel and chop the ginger and garlic. Grind them together in a mixer to form a fine paste. This will be added later to bring depth of flavor to the dish. -
Combine Ginger-Garlic Paste & Sambal Paste:
Add the ginger-garlic paste to the cooking squash and stir well. Next, introduce the sambal paste to the skillet, ensuring that it coats the squash pieces thoroughly. Stir-fry for a few minutes until the paste and the ginger-garlic mixture are well integrated with the squash. -
Simmer and Adjust Texture:
Add 2-3 tablespoons of water to the skillet and allow the squash to simmer, covered, until the pieces become tender and soft. If you prefer a drier, more pickle-like texture, cook the squash a little longer to allow the moisture to evaporate. -
Serve:
Once the squash is tender and the flavors have melded together, remove from heat. Serve this spicy and tangy Acorn Squash Sambal as a delightful side dish. It pairs beautifully with Thai Jasmine Sticky Rice and Vegetarian Thai Red Curry, creating a wholesome and flavorful Pan-Asian meal.
Tip:
For an extra touch of flavor, you can sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top before serving, or add a dash of lime juice for a hint of freshness.
This Acorn Squash Sambal is the ultimate way to showcase the versatility of squash while delivering a perfect balance of spice and savory goodness. Whether served alongside your favorite curry or rice dish, it will surely be a crowd-pleaser!
