Microwave Butternut Squash
The other day, I was going to roast a butternut squash in the oven to then cube and use in a stew. I noticed on the squash, there was a sticker suggesting to cook it in the microwave, with the following directions:
Cut in half and remove seeds. Place cut side down in dish and add 1/2" of water. Cook on high 8 min or till tender. Let set 5 min.
I saw that, and I was very hungry, so thought "Why not try it -- 8+5=13 minutes sure beats waiting for the oven to preheat + 50 mins of baking time", so I gave it a shot.
I was cooking that sucker for darn near just as long -- it never seemed to get soft. I think I finally got it tender after putting it back in the microwave for 8 mins at a time like 5 times, and even then it was really spotty in its doneness - a few spots were very cooked and mushy, others still rock hard.
Any ideas of what I could have done wrong? Anyone had success in cooking a butternet squash in the microwave?
Best Answer
I suspect the problem was the 1/2 inch of water, which would have absorbed a goodly amount of the microwave energy, preventing it from heating the flesh of the squash.
For very slightly more detailed instructions, which are not too far off from what you have tried, you might try this recipe from the Food Network, which recommends 5-7 minutes for 1/2 of a squash, but no water.
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How long does it take to microwave a butternut squash?
Microwave the squash on high for 15 - 17 minutes, or until the squash is tender (you can test this by piercing the squash with a fork; if the fork slides in with little resistance, the squash is done). To serve, you can cut each squash half in two, for a total of 4 servings (or, for 2 large servings, serve as-is).Can you put butternut squash in the microwave?
Place butternut squash cubes in a 1-quart microwave-safe bowl or container. Add water and tightly cover with plastic wrap or a plate that covers the top of the dish. Microwave on high power for 4 minutes. Very carefully lift the cover to check if the squash is fork-tender.How long does squash take to cook in the microwave?
Lay cut side down on a piece of microwave safe plastic wrap placed directly on microwave bottom or plate. Cook on high in 5 minute intervals until completely softened and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes for 1/2 an acorn squash. Cook times will vary depending upon the size and variety of your squash.How long do you microwave butternut squash to make it easier to cut?
Using the same sharp knife that almost cost you a finger, carefully cut off the top and bottom of the squash on a cutting board. Microwave the squash for at least 3 minutes and 30 seconds (you might need to go a little longer, depending on the size, but that should do the trick).HOW TO COOK BUTTERNUT SQUASH || MICROWAVE -OR- ROASTED
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Answer 2
I love butternut squash!! When I am making a small amount, I cook it in the microwave. When I am making a large amount, I put it in the oven. For the microwave, I peel the butternut neck, slice it into rounds, then dice it in 1/2" squares. I peel the apples and dice them. I toss both in a microwave container along with crasins and apple juice, cider, or water. I microwave it--maybe 5 minutes. Take it out and poke the squash and see if it needs more time. I am addicted to this combo. I serve it hot as a vegetable, cold in a fast salad, and I even add it to my morning oatmeal.
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