Freshen up your fall cooking repertoire with these innovative kabocha squash recipes. They’re not only visually stunning but also offer a delightful twist on traditional flavors. Also known as Japanese pumpkin, this versatile gourd boasts a sweet and creamy texture that makes it easy to incorporate into healthy meals. While roasting kabocha with olive oil and salt can make for a tasty side dish during the holidays, why not explore new possibilities?
I’ve curated a list of 20 mouth-watering kabocha squash recipes that are sure to inspire your culinary creativity. From sweet and uncomplicated to savory and complex, this diverse collection has something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a simple yet satisfying meal or an intricate dish to impress your guests, these recipes are ready to fuel your passion for cooking.
Quick and Easy Roasted Kabocha Squash and More!
Roasted Kabocha Squash
Lovely roasted kabocha squash recipes often get overlooked in favor of more exotic flavors, but this particular dish is a game-changer. It’s not just about tossing some oil and salt together; the soy-ginger glazed topping elevates the entire experience. The combination of maple syrup, soy sauce, and ground ginger creates a sticky and scrumptious glaze that pairs perfectly with the roasted squash.
To prepare, simply slice the squash in half, remove the seeds, and drizzle with oil before sprinkling with salt and pepper. Then, bake until the squash is tender and ready for its finishing touch – the soy-ginger glaze.
Kabocha Salad
Taking inspiration from traditional potato salads, this kabocha salad boasts a healthier twist with the same comforting flavors. A mix of soft squash, crunchy cucumbers, and crispy bacon comes together in harmony with Kewpie mayo, creating a rich and indulgent taste experience that’s perfect for warm weather gatherings or BBQ season.
Vegan Kabocha Squash Muffins
Virtually anything can be made into a muffin, but these squash muffins are particularly delightful! Okay, I’ll stop with the puns now and get serious. They’re surprisingly fluffy, lightly sweetened, and irresistibly scrumptious. One of the best things about this recipe is its simplicity – it requires only seven ingredients to come together. Using cake flour is a game-changer in terms of texture, as it yields a tender crumb that’s light and airy.
And let’s not forget the squash, which adds an incredible amount of moisture to the muffins. These babies are perfect for a quick breakfast on-the-go, or for serving at brunch or potlucks – they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser! Go to Recipe
One-Pot Japanese Pumpkin Curry Stew
Velvety in texture and rich in flavor, this Japanese-inspired curry stew is a game-changer for anyone looking for a filling and satisfying meal. Chunks of kabocha, cabbage, carrots, and tofu swim in a savory broth that’s both comforting and invigorating. Unlike traditional Japanese curry, which can be somewhat light and subtle, this stew packs a punch with its bold flavors and heartwarming goodness.
Serve it over rice if you like, but honestly, the stew is so filling and flavorful on its own that it’s not necessary to add extra carbs.
Kabocha Squash Chili
Everyone’s familiar with a classic bowl of chili, but let’s be honest, even the most passionate chili lovers need a break from the same old recipe after a while. This is especially true during the fall season when the weather cools down and we’re looking for new flavors to warm us up. Enter this kabocha squash chili, a game-changing twist on traditional chili that I’ve fallen head over heels in love with.
The addition of cinnamon and cloves gives it an extra depth of flavor, while leaving out the meat ensures that it’s not only delicious but also kind to your taste buds and the environment. What I love most about this recipe is its ease – simply toss everything into a slow cooker and let the magic happen!
Kale and Sunshine Kabocha Squash Salad
Paired with the vibrant hues of summer, this salad boasts a medley of flavors and textures that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Packed with nutrient-dense ingredients like kale and kabocha squash – specifically its sunshine variation – you’ll also add some crunch from pumpkin seeds and a tangy kick from vinaigrette. Perfect for warm weather gatherings, this salad is a delightful representation of the season’s bounty.
It makes an excellent accompaniment to various proteins and is ideal for family dinners, making it a versatile addition to your meal repertoire.
Vegetable Tempura
Bring Japanese-inspired flavors to your meals with this easy recipe for vegetable tempura. The key to achieving the perfect crispy exterior and fluffy interior lies in the tempura batter, which is surprisingly simple to make. By following these steps, you can turn a variety of vegetables into mouthwatering tempura delights.
Don’t be afraid to get creative with your choice of veggies – while squash and eggplant are popular options, feel free to experiment with mushrooms, carrots, or even broccoli. Serve your veggie tempura as an appetizer before dinner or as a satisfying side dish that’s sure to disappear quickly. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add some crunch and excitement to their meals.
Roasted Kabocha Squash Hummus with Lamb & Lemon Parsley Sauce
Highlight this recipe now and get ready to impress your guests with an exquisite appetizer! It’s one of those sophisticated dishes that’s sure to wow anyone who tries it. And don’t worry if you’re intimidated by its long name – the good news is that it’s surprisingly easy to prepare. The real showstopper here is the creamy kabocha hummus, which sets the tone for a rich and indulgent treat.
But what takes this dish to the next level are the seared lamb chops, which add a nice char and texture, all topped off with a tangy sauce. And let’s not forget the crispy naan bread – it’s like the icing on the cake! Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to treat yourself to something special, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Stuffed Kabocha Squash (Vegan & Paleo)
Unlocking the secrets of roasted kabocha squash is a culinary delight that never fails to impress. Whether you’re in the mood for something new or just looking to add some variety to your meal routine, this healthy stuffed kabocha recipe has won me over with its depth of flavors and simplicity. The combination of tender, roasted squash halves filled with an assortment of colorful veggies and fragrant herbs is a match made in heaven.
Best of all, the dish is remarkably easy to adapt and customize to suit your tastes, making it an ideal option for both vegans and non-vegans alike. Feel free to add some protein-rich chicken to give it a boost, or keep it as is and serve up a delicious meatless Monday treat that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Whole Kabocha Gratin
Welcome to the ultimate comfort food recipe, a creative spin on the classic potato dish we all adore. This innovative twist features Kabocha squash filled with an array of vegetables in a rich and creamy sauce, topped with melted cheese and baked to perfection. What’s more, this delightful concoction uses pumpkins as its base, revealing that even the most unexpected ingredients can become the epitome of culinary perfection.
When you serve this mouth-watering dish at your next family Sunday dinner, be prepared for endless praise and accolades from your loved ones.
Kabocha Pork Stir-Fry
Alright, I’ll let the cat out of the bag: this pork stir-fry has officially stolen my heart! Gone are the days of relying on frozen vegetables and chicken for a quick fix – I’ve found a new love affair with this mouth-watering and vibrant stir fry recipe that’s about to become your go-to as well. It all begins with an aromatic blend of ground pork and succulent kabocha, which you’ll coat in a rich and decadent Japanese sauce that elevates the dish to new heights.
As the kabocha absorbs the flavors, it adds a delightful texture that complements the tender pork perfectly. To make this meal complete, simply serve the stir-fry over a bed of steamed rice and garnish with fresh vegetables – voilà! A delicious, well-rounded meal is ready in mere minutes, and you’ll be hooked from the very first bite.
Oyaki (Japanese Stuffed Dumplings)
Just like many other Japanese snacks, oyaki are often underestimated as a simple side dish, but they can easily be transformed into a satisfying and filling dinner option. Juxtaposed with the humble notion of being a snack, these dumplings pack a punch with their rich and savory fillings made from eggplant and kabocha. The combination of soft and fluffy dumpling dough, whether pan-fried or steamed to perfection, is a match made in heaven.
Whether you stick to traditional flavors or get creative with your own modifications, one thing is certain: these bite-sized morsels will leave you craving more, making it impossible to stop at just one or two.
Kabocha Croquettes
Fusing anime-inspired flavors with kitchen-friendly techniques, croquettes have become a staple in many culinary worlds. And for good reason – their crispy exteriors and fluffy interiors make them irresistibly delicious. In this recipe, the combination of mashed butter kabocha, crispy bacon, and panko crust will transport your taste buds to a world where Japanese and Western cuisines collide. The best part?
You can achieve that crunchy goodness without breaking a sweat, thanks to the versatility of the panko crust, which allows for deep-frying, Air Frying, or baking – all resulting in a golden-brown delight.
Red Thai Curry with Chicken and Kabocha Squash
Zeroing in on the flavors of India, this scrumptious spicy chicken curry is a dish that’s hard to resist. The addition of kabocha squash gives it a unique twist, with its potato-like texture and sweet, savory flavor. It’s a harmonious balance of spices that will leave you wanting more, but be warned – there’s a subtle kick at the end that’ll keep you on your toes. Serve it up with a side of rice or naan to help temper the heat.
Kabocha Pie
Take a culinary trip around the world with this unique and mouth-watering kabocha pie recipe. Imagine a Japanese-inspired twist on the classic pumpkin pie – that’s exactly what you’ll get when you try this delicious dessert. To make it, start by steaming and mashing kombucha squash until it’s cool to the touch. Next, prepare the pie filling by mixing together brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and a splash of rum for an added depth of flavor.
This straightforward yet sweet pie is perfect for any holiday gathering or special occasion.
Whole Roasted Kabocha Squash with Chipotle Butter
Here’s a mouth-watering combination that will tantalize your taste buds – roasted kabocha smothered in a savory blend of butter and Chipotle seasoning. This is no ordinary butter, as you’ll be mixing in some smoky heat before tossing it with the kabocha. The result is a deliciously balanced flavor that will leave you craving for more.
Japanese Simmered Kabocha
Unlocking the natural flavors of kabocha squash has never been easier with this simple recipe that showcases its delicious taste! Typically, Japanese squash is paired with a rich and savory broth that brings out the best in its subtle sweetness. To create this harmonious balance, a dash of umami flavor is added through katsuobushi flakes, while sake, soy sauce, and sugar blend together to create a rich and velvety broth that perfectly complements the kabocha’s natural flavors.
Simply slice the squash, let it simmer in this incredible broth, and serve for a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Mashed Kabocha Salad
Generally speaking, the name ‘Mashed Kabocha Salad’ might give you a misleading impression. In reality, this recipe doesn’t contain any actual salad ingredients. I simply refer to it as ‘mashed kabocha’ because that’s exactly what it is – a delicious and comforting side dish made from boiled kabocha squash. However, don’t let the name fool you – this recipe is definitely worth trying!
One key twist sets it apart from traditional mashed potato recipes: instead of using butter or cream, I mix Kewpie mayo with the boiled kabocha before mashing. The result is a healthier and more filling alternative that’s surprisingly even better than its starchy counterpart!
20 Best Ways to Cook Kabocha Squash
Generally, when it comes to fall vegetables, people tend to opt for the more traditional butternut squash. However, there’s another contender that deserves some attention – kabocha squash! Not only is it just as vibrant and flavorful as its counterpart, but it also brings a unique twist to your dinner table.
Instructions
Various cuisines incorporate kabocha squash into their dishes, but preparing a simple recipe doesn’t have to be complicated. First, choose a straightforward recipe that suits your tastes and dietary needs. Next, gather all the necessary ingredients and double-check them against the recipe to ensure you don’t miss anything crucial. By following these basic steps, you can prepare a delicious kabocha squash dish within 30 minutes or less.
