Winter squash

Winter squash season

Originally from Central America, winter squash belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family. The fruit is harvested between October and December in France.

Nutritional value of winter squash

With few calories (under 20 kilocalories per 100 grammes), winter squash is rich in provitamin A, potassium and easily digested fibre. Its seeds can be dried and preserved for their cholesterol-fighting properties.

Winter squash varieties

Not to be confused with the pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo), winter squash (Cucurbita maxima) is an entirely different species. However, there are several major varieties of winter squash:

• the classic orange winter squash, with a slightly flat, round shape;
• the pear-shaped red kuri squash, which may also feature very different colours;
• the giraumon, also called the " turban squash" due to the growth on its top;
• the long hubbard squash.

Winter squash facts

Once the seeds, fibres and skin have been removed, there are several ways to prepare winter squash: in slices (soup, gratins) or diced (purées, tarts, fried or desserts).

Winter squash can reach record weights of up to 100 kilogrammes. Some are used as decorations, especially for Halloween.