Squash with Peanut

Squash with Peanut Recipe from Central African Republic - Hearty and Savory

Region / culture: Central African Republic | Servings: 4

Introduction

Squash with Peanut is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the earthy flavors of squash with the rich nuttiness of peanuts. This recipe is a popular dish in many cultures and is loved for its simplicity and comforting flavors.

History

The combination of squash and peanuts is a classic pairing that can be found in many cuisines around the world. This dish is often served as a side dish or main course and is loved for its hearty and satisfying flavors.

Ingredients

oil
2-3 lb of summer squash (cut into cubes) or zucchini (sliced)
3 cups of shelled roasted peanuts, crushed or coarsely chopped
salt to taste
1 tsp of brown sugar or white sugar (optional)

How to prepare

Heat a spoonful of oil in a large skillet.
Cook the squash until it begins to become tender, stirring often, for about five to ten minutes. (Or cook the squash in one cup of boiling water. Drain excess water before adding peanuts.)
The squash can be mashed if desired.
Add peanuts, salt, and sugar. Reduce heat.
Simmer until the squash is tender and flavors have mingled, for about five minutes. Serve hot.

Variations

Add some diced tomatoes or bell peppers for extra flavor and color.
Use cashews or almonds instead of peanuts for a different twist.
Add some coconut milk for a creamy texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to slice the zucchini evenly to ensure even cooking.

- Roasting the peanuts before crushing or chopping them will enhance their flavor.

- Adjust the amount of salt and sugar to suit your taste preferences.

- Feel free to add other seasonings or spices to customize the dish to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

Squash with Peanut can be served as a side dish with rice or bread, or as a main course with a salad on the side.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the squash until it is tender but still has a bit of bite to it.

- Simmering the dish allows the flavors to meld together and creates a delicious sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any type of summer squash or zucchini in place of the zucchini.

- Any type of nut can be used in place of peanuts.

Make Ahead Tips

Squash with Peanut can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with some chopped cilantro or parsley for a pop of color. Serve it in a decorative bowl for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Squash with Peanut pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Squash with Peanut contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Squash with Peanut contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Squash with Peanut contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Squash with Peanut contains approximately 10 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Squash is a good source of vitamins A and C, while peanuts are rich in vitamin E and several minerals such as magnesium and phosphorus.

Alergens

This recipe contains peanuts, which are a common allergen. Be sure to check for any allergies before serving.

Summary

Squash with Peanut is a nutritious dish that is rich in healthy fats, proteins, and vitamins. It is a great option for a balanced meal.

Summary

Squash with Peanut is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. Whether served as a side dish or main course, this recipe is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by it. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Sarah's house for a lunch party. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was hit with the most wonderful aroma. Sarah was busy chopping up ingredients for a dish that looked absolutely delicious.

"What are you making, Sarah?" I asked, unable to contain my curiosity.

"Oh, this is a family recipe for Squash with Peanut," she replied with a smile. "It's a traditional dish from my grandmother's village in the Philippines. Would you like to help me make it?"

I eagerly agreed and watched as Sarah showed me how to prepare the squash. She explained that the key to this dish was in the balance of flavors - the sweetness of the squash, the nuttiness of the peanuts, and the tangy kick from the vinegar and soy sauce.

As we cooked together, Sarah shared stories of her childhood and the memories she had of watching her grandmother make this dish. She told me about how her grandmother would gently fry the garlic and onions until they were golden brown, then add the squash and cook it until it was tender. Finally, she would sprinkle in the peanuts and seasonings, creating a mouthwatering dish that was both comforting and satisfying.

I was mesmerized by Sarah's storytelling and the way she handled the ingredients with such care and precision. It was clear that this recipe held a special place in her heart, and I could feel the love and tradition that went into every step of the cooking process.

After we finished cooking, Sarah plated up the Squash with Peanut and we sat down to enjoy our meal. The flavors were incredible - the squash was perfectly tender, the peanuts added a wonderful crunch, and the sauce was rich and flavorful. I couldn't believe how something so simple could taste so divine.

As I left Sarah's house that day, I knew that I had to learn how to make Squash with Peanut for myself. I asked her for the recipe, and she graciously shared it with me, along with some tips and tricks that she had picked up from her grandmother.

Over the years, I have made Squash with Peanut countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my taste. Sometimes I add a bit more vinegar for extra tang, or sprinkle in some chili flakes for a spicy kick. No matter how I make it, this dish always brings me back to that sunny day in Sarah's kitchen, and the joy of cooking and sharing a meal with loved ones.

As I pass this recipe down to my own family, I hope that they will cherish it as much as I do. Food has a way of connecting us to our roots and our heritage, and for me, Squash with Peanut is a delicious reminder of the love and tradition that has been passed down through generations.

So the next time you find yourself with a basket of fresh squash and a jar of peanuts, I urge you to give this recipe a try. Let the flavors transport you to a sunny kitchen filled with laughter and love, and savor every bite of this delightful dish. Bon appétit!