| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 25 mins – 30 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 175 | 11g | 7g | 15g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 6g | 2g | 2g | 0.4g |
The Magic of Calabash
The culinary magic of Mashed Calabash with Butter and Nutmeg starts with this versatile gourd that’s beloved in so many cultures. From southern Louisiana to the serene French countryside, calabash has found its place in my heart and kitchen. It’s a vegetable that is often underappreciated, yet when you know how to harness its subtle flavor and rich texture, it becomes nothing short of extraordinary. This dish is quite close to my Creole and French roots, bringing together a harmony of warmth, subtle sweetness, and a hint of spice.
Flavor Meets Health
A delightful aspect of Mashed Calabash with Butter and Nutmeg is its health benefits. Calabash is low in calories, yet it packs a nutritional punch with a good amount of vitamin C, dietary fiber, and several antioxidants. These nutrients are known to support heart health, enhance digestion, and even boost your immune system. By simply adding butter and nutmeg, we turn this humble vegetable into a dish that feels indulgent without compromising on nutrition.
The inclusion of heavy cream and brown sugar brings a luxurious texture and a sweet undertone that is beautifully balanced by the warmth of nutmeg. If you’re watching your sugar intake, feel free to adjust the amount of brown sugar, or even try a natural sweetener like honey.
Perfect Pairings
This mashed calabash could easily be compared to dishes like mashed sweet potatoes or butternut squash puree, yet it has its unique charm. It’s a great complement to roasted meats, such as a herb-crusted rack of lamb or a juicy honey-glazed ham. For a lighter meal, you can pair it with a fresh green salad or steamed green beans for a delightful contrast in textures and flavors.
If you’re eager to explore more about calabash and its uses, check out this article about its nutritional benefits. For more adventurous recipes involving this wonderful vegetable, you might enjoy this collection of calabash-based dishes.
I hope you find as much joy in preparing this dish as I do. Bon appétit!
What You’ll Need
- 2 large calabashes (around 4-5 lbs in total)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully cut the calabashes in half lengthwise and remove the seeds. Place the calabash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, or until the flesh is very tender when pierced with a fork.
Step Two
Remove the calabash halves from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Using a spoon, scoop out the flesh into a large mixing bowl, discarding the skins.
Step Three
Add the unsalted butter to the calabash flesh while it is still warm, allowing the butter to melt. Mash the mixture together until smooth and well combined.
Step Four
Stir in the ground nutmeg, heavy cream, brown sugar, salt, and ground black pepper until everything is well incorporated.
Step Five
Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the mashed calabash warm, garnished with a small pat of butter or a sprinkle of nutmeg if desired. Enjoy!
