How To Prepare Calabaza: A Delicious And Nutritious Recipe

Dwy hesti

November 23, 2022

Introduction

Calabaza, also known as West Indian pumpkin, is a versatile and delicious ingredient in many dishes. It is a type of winter squash that is commonly found in Latin American and Caribbean cuisine. Calabaza is rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy addition to any diet. In this article, we will discuss how to prepare calabaza and share a delicious recipe for you to try at home.

Ingredients

To prepare calabaza, you will need the following ingredients: - 1 calabaza (about 4 pounds) - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 onion, chopped - 2 garlic cloves, minced - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Cut and Clean the Calabaza

Start by washing the calabaza and patting it dry. Cut off the stem and the bottom of the calabaza, then slice it in half. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds and stringy flesh from the center of the calabaza. Cut the calabaza into large chunks, about 2 inches in size.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.

Step 3: Add the Calabaza and Spices

Add the calabaza chunks to the pan with the onions and garlic. Sprinkle the ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the calabaza. Stir well to coat the calabaza evenly with the spices.

Step 4: Cook the Calabaza

Cover the pan with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook the calabaza for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the calabaza is cooked, remove the pan from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve the calabaza as a side dish or use it as a filling for tacos, burritos, or quesadillas. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calabaza is a nutritious ingredient that is low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals. One cup of cooked calabaza (245 grams) contains: - Calories: 49 - Protein: 2 grams - Fat: 0.2 grams - Carbohydrates: 12 grams - Fiber: 2.7 grams - Vitamin A: 197% of the Daily Value (DV) - Vitamin C: 19% of the DV - Potassium: 16% of the DV - Magnesium: 11% of the DV Calabaza is also a good source of other vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, and vitamin E.

Conclusion

Calabaza is a delicious and nutritious ingredient that is easy to prepare and can be used in many different dishes. Whether you serve it as a side dish or use it as a filling for tacos or quesadillas, calabaza is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Try our recipe and enjoy the delicious flavors of this versatile winter squash!