The seeds are large like pumpkin seeds, so when you plant them, you plant them in hills about a 1/2 inch deep. They are quick to sprout and when fully grown, the plants take about 2 to 3 foot area in your garden. You can expect to get anywhere between 10-15 large kapocha squash from 1 plant. (The two in the picture above are each about the size of a human head).
The one drawback of the kapocha squash is that it is super mild, almost flavorless. That said, I found a good recipe here. Another good way to use them is to simply blend the meaty flesh and mix it with basil - it makes a great starter broth, like a vegetable broth. Then add water until you get the righ consistency. The way I see it - it's better than just starting your soup with plain water.
You can roast the seeds in olive oil, salt and pepper, just like pumpkin seeds. You can also puree them and use as a topping.
If you're looking for a very mild squash that produces a LOT of fruit for the space it takes up, add a Kapocha to your garden this spring. Enjoy!
My boyfriend grows kapocha squash, and I don't care for it much. It literally has no flavor, and no matter what you do with it, it never tastes good. I'd rather eat tofu at this point.
ReplyDeleteWill you please share some recipes for this squash? Otherwise I'll have to ask my BF to devote the space in his garden to something more delectable, like fava beans.
gracias -