Tails’ Blography

Hamilton’s Squash and Chicken Steaklets

I’m not sure when I got this bee in my bonnet to try out new cooking dishes, but I’m enjoying (almost) every minute of it. A while ago I borrowed my mom’s Happy Days with the Naked Chef cooking book (no, this was after I was bitten by the cooking bug) and found a recipe for Hamilton’s Squash. I just had to try it (which is surprising in it’s own, being that I’m not a butternut lover at all and that my mother has made this before and I’ve never eaten it!)!

Basically, its a butternut squash, stuffed with basmati rice, mushrooms (which I omitted this time since bf -sadly- doesnt eat mushrooms), sundried tomatoes, and various spices such as rosemary, chilli (optional) and coriander seeds. It gets oiled, wrapped in foil, and cooked in the oven at 230° for about an hour and fifteen minutes. What results is greatly pleasing!

The most difficult part, in my opinion, is scoring and scooping out the inner part of the butternut (mainly the neck area). That takes some hectic wrist action! It’s a nice way to work up an appetite though hehe. Oh and the waiting is pretty tough too – especially if its your first time making it!

That being said, my first attempt proved successful enough (and bf liked it!!), but in hindsight, I think I’ll parboil the rice before hand, as I’m not fond of the al dente texture that results from this recipe. Other than that, it was great! Oh and I also think I’ll pick a slightly smaller squash next time, esp if I’m having it alongside anything else (like chicken). The bf also wont eat too much butternut, so I dont want to waste any if possible.

Preparing the squash

Straight out of the oven!

It really is great as a meal on its own, so dont be afraid to pick a big ol’ butternut and make it a main course! Perfect for vegetarians!!

I’m not sure I could see myself making this more than once a month though haha since it is quite tiresome to make. If I’m having a dinner party, however, bring it on!

PS: My new ratties arrive on Monday 27th!!

Ramoth looking down (Husky) and Wirenth looking above (Dumbo)!