This dish highlights the natural sweetness of the Kabocha squash, complemented by the earthy depth of sautéed mushrooms and aromatic coriander seeds.
Ingredients:
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3 small Japanese squashes (Kabocha), halved and seeds removed
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1 basket of mushrooms (any variety), finely diced
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1 large onion, chopped
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2 cloves of garlic, minced
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½ bunch of fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
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1 tbsp coriander seeds, crushed
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3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
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Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prep the Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it turns a light golden brown.
- Toast the Spices: Add the crushed coriander seeds and the minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the Mushrooms: Add the diced mushrooms to the pan and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until they have softened and released their moisture.
- Finish the Filling: Stir in the chopped cilantro (or parsley) and season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.
- Stuff the Squash: Generously fill the hollowed-out centers of the squash halves with the mushroom mixture. Place the stuffed halves in a baking dish.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly (with a lid or foil) and bake for 30 minutes.
- Brown: Remove the cover and roast for an additional 15 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the tops are nicely browned.
- Serve: Garnish with a few fresh herbs before serving.
- Tip: You can use a mix of wild mushrooms to add a more complex, forest-like flavor to the filling.
