Save This Sweet and Spicy Red Kuri Squash Bowl is a vibrant seasonal dish featuring creamy roasted red kuri squash, balanced with warming spices, sweet maple, and a touch of chili. It is the perfect meal for chilly days, offering a comforting and flavorful experience that is both healthy and satisfying.
Save The red kuri squash, known for its beautiful orange hue and edible skin, roasts to perfection alongside sliced red onions. When tossed with smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cumin, the vegetables take on a deep, aromatic quality that pairs wonderfully with the bright notes of lime and cilantro used for garnishing.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 1 medium red kuri squash (about 2 lbs), seeded and cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 medium red onion, sliced; 2 cups kale, chopped (stems removed); 1 cup cooked quinoa (optional, for serving).
- Spice & Seasoning: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 ½ tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; ½ tsp ground cumin; ½ tsp chili flakes; ¾ tsp sea salt; ¼ tsp black pepper.
- Sweet & Tangy: 2 tbsp pure maple syrup; 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar.
- Garnishes: ¼ cup roasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas); 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro; 1 small lime, cut into wedges.
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2
- In a large bowl, toss the red kuri squash and red onion with olive oil, smoked paprika, cinnamon, cumin, chili flakes, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Step 3
- Spread the vegetables in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 25 minutes.
- Step 4
- Drizzle the maple syrup and apple cider vinegar over the partially roasted vegetables, toss gently, and return to the oven for another 10 minutes, until caramelized and tender.
- Step 5
- While the squash roasts, steam or sauté the chopped kale until just wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
- Step 6
- To serve, divide cooked quinoa (if using) among four bowls. Top with roasted squash, onions, and wilted kale.
- Step 7
- Garnish each bowl with roasted pumpkin seeds, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lime.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
This recipe is classified as easy and takes about 55 minutes total. For the best results, ensure the squash cubes are uniform in size to ensure even roasting. Using a high-quality pure maple syrup will enhance the caramelization process during the final 10 minutes of baking.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For extra protein, you can easily add cooked chickpeas or grilled tofu to the bowl. If you prefer a different leafy green, substitute baby spinach for the kale. For those who enjoy more heat, feel free to increase the amount of chili flakes to suit your preference.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this bowl warm, ideally over a bed of fluffy quinoa. A squeeze of fresh lime just before eating is essential to brighten the earthy flavors. For a complete dining experience, pair this dish with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
Save Each serving of this bowl (without quinoa) contains approximately 210 calories, 8g of total fat, 36g of carbohydrates, and 4g of protein. It's a nutrient-dense option that brings the best of modern American seasonal cooking to your table.
Recipe FAQ
- → What does red kuri squash taste like?
Red kuri squash has a sweet, nutty flavor reminiscent of chestnuts with a smooth, creamy texture when roasted. It's naturally sweeter than butternut squash and develops beautiful caramelization in the oven.
- → Can I make this bowl ahead of time?
Yes! Roast the squash and onions up to 3 days in advance. Store in the refrigerator and reheat at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. Prepare the kale fresh just before serving for the best texture.
- → Is red kuri squash the same as pumpkin?
While related, red kuri is a distinct Japanese variety with reddish-orange skin and a teardrop shape. It's sweeter and creamier than most pumpkins, with a thinner edible skin that softens nicely when roasted.
- → What can I substitute for red kuri squash?
Butternut squash, kabocha, or delicata squash work well as substitutes. Adjust cooking time slightly—delicata cooks faster, while kabocha may need a few extra minutes to become tender.
- → How do I reduce the spice level?
Simply reduce or omit the chili flakes. The smoked paprika adds flavor without much heat, so you'll still get depth of flavor. Start with ¼ teaspoon chili flakes and adjust to your preference.
- → Can I cook the squash differently?
Absolutely! Try cubing and pan-frying for crispy edges, or cut into wedges and grill for a smoky char. Air frying at 400°F for 15-20 minutes also works beautifully for quicker preparation.