Vegetable | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Calorie Low Fat

Hubbard Squash

Cucurbita maxima Allergen-Free
Hubbard Squash

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Cucurbitaceae
  • Primary Cuisine North American
  • Seasonality Late Summer to Winter
  • Source Squash plant

The Forktionary Angle

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Definition

A large winter squash with a hard, often bumpy skin and sweet, orange-yellow flesh, known for its long storage life.

Sensory Profile

TasteSweet, Earthy
TextureStarchy, Creamy (when cooked), Mealy
AromaMildly Sweet, Vegetal
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Nutrition Facts

Per 1 cup (205g)
Calories34 kcal
Total Fat0.1 g
Saturated Fat0.0 g
Trans Fat0.0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein1.2 g
Total Carbohydrate8.5 g
Dietary Fiber2.2 g
Total Sugars3.2 g
Calcium21 mg
Iron0.7 mg
Potassium350 mg

Chef’s Secret

To easily cut hard squash, pierce several times and microwave for 2-4 minutes to soften the skin before cutting. Roast cut-side down for even caramelization.

Substitutions

Best Match

Butternut Squash

1:1

Similar sweetness, texture, and uses in roasting, purees, or soups.

Acorn Squash

1:1

Slightly less sweet, good for baking or roasting individual portions.

Sweet Potato

1:1

Excellent for sweet dishes, purees, and roasting due to its sweetness and starchiness.

Pumpkin (sugar pie)

1:1

Good for pies, purees, and soups, offering a similar flavor profile.

Buying Guide

Look for a squash that feels heavy for its size, has dull, hard skin with no soft spots or mold. Avoid shiny skin, which indicates immaturity. Store in a cool, dry place.

Flavor Pairings

Brown sugar cinnamon nutmeg sage maple syrup butter pecans chicken pork onions garlic.