How do you make squash easier to peel?

Using a very sharp vegetable peeler, one with a carbon steel blade, will help with the peeling. By the way, it helps to microwave a butternut squash (whole) for 30 seconds or so first, before peeling. This will help soften the peel just enough to make it a bit easier to peel.

What is the trick to peeling pumpkin?

Microwave the pumpkin on high for 5 minutes, or until easily pierced with a fork. Peel when cool enough to handle .

How to make cutting pumpkin easier?

If you're cutting a butternut pumpkin, first lay it on its side and slice it in half. Then place each half cut-side down and follow the same steps as above. Always use a large, sharp knife . This will slice easily through the tough skin, making it both safer and easier for you.

What does soaking pumpkins in vinegar do?

Why does this work? The vinegar kills fungus, making it hard for the pumpkin to rot . That's why vinegar-soaked pumpkins look so new; they're unblemished by the grossness that inevitably befalls their untreated peers.

How to cut pumpkin hack?

Before cutting, use a knife to poke a few slits around the outside of the pumpkin skin. Next pop the whole pumpkin in the microwave for about five minutes . Microwaving will soften the skin slightly which means that the pumpkin will be much easier to cut.

What is the best tool to cut pumpkin?

Use a keyhole saw to make the initial cut into the pumpkin. Use a fleshing tool for removing the pulp and seeds, and to thin the pumpkin's walls (this allows more light to come through your design). Then, you can use a variety of tools—many of which are found at your local arts and crafts store—to carve in the details.

Why is my pumpkin so hard to cut?

As the body of a pumpkin is solid and hard, it can be a difficult and sometimes dangerous chunk to cut through ! Therefore, using the heel of your hand will provide weight to ensure the knife glides through the pumpkin while also ensuring your fingers stay out of harm's way.

How to make squash easier to peel?

Simply slice off the top and bottom, poke the squash all over with a fork and microwave it on high for about 3 minutes . When it's cool enough to handle, peel the squash. The softened flesh will make peeling (and slicing) way easier.

How do you cut butternut squash without peeling it?

No need to peel it first. Wash the butternut squash, then place it on the cutting board with the stem pointing away from your body. Use your knife to slice ¼-inch off the stem end and the root end. With your non-dominant hand steadying the squash, trace the knife from end to end the length of the squash.

How to soften acorn squash before cutting?

How to Soften Acorn Squash Before Cutting It. You can quickly soften an acorn squash before cutting it by using a microwave . Using a knife or fork, make a few small incisions in the squash to allow steam to escape. Place the squash in a microwavable bowl and heat on high for three minutes.

Why is my summer squash skin tough?

Hotter than normal temps and not enough water could cause thick skins . Nthing that you probably have quality crooknecks. Squash are the most promiscuous of plants so I would assume it is your source's problem, not yours. Try a different variety before you assume it's growing conditions.

Easy Hacks For Peeling and Cutting Squash or Pumpkins (2024)

Food

Preparing a squash can be a time commitment. But it doesn't have to be.

Heath Goldman

Heath Goldman is a trained chef, recipe developer, and writer.

Real Simple's Editorial Guidelines

Updated on September 18, 2023

Medically reviewed by

Kristy Del Coro, MS, RDN, LDN

How to Peel Squash

What You Need

Fork
Microwave
Microwave-safe dish
Y-shaped peeler, paring knife, or chef's knife

Step 1: Use a Microwave

Poke the squash or pumpkin all over with the tines of a fork. Place it in a microwave-safe container and microwave on high for three minutes.

Step 2: Cut into Two Pieces

If your squash type has a thin neck, it's easier to work with two pieces. For example, when cutting butternut squash, cut the base and neck apart and tackle each separately. Skip this step if you are peeling a pumpkin or other rounded squash like acorn squash (unless you need help cutting it). If that's the case, cut a small section off the bottom of the squash to create a flat surface for it to rest on.

Step 3: Peel With Y-Shaped Peeler or Knife

Next, use a chef's knife or Y-shaped peeler to remove the skin. Stand upright and, working from top to bottom, cut off the skin in strips with the knife or peeler, following the shape of the squash. You may take off a bit more flesh with a knife than with a peeler, but the knife will be much faster.

Knives work best for squash with tough skin, and vegetable peelers work fine for softer skin.

How to Cut Squash

What You Need

Cutting board
Chef's knife

Step 1: Cut in Half

Once the squash is peeled, use a chef's knife to finish chopping. It should be fairly easy to do once the skin is removed and after it has been softened a bit by the microwave. At this point, your squash might already be cut into two pieces (the top and bottom). Start by taking the larger of the two pieces and cutting it in half.

Step 2: Remove the Seeds

Next, remove the seeds by using a spoon to scrape the insides. You can save the seeds to use in a pumpkin seed recipe later or discard them.

Step 3: Cut into Chunks or Wedges

Now take each half and cut into chunks or wedges (or whatever your recipe calls for) using a large chef's knife. Hold the knife properly by ensuring the front is always resting on the cutting board and moving in a rocking movement from front to back, up and down, as you slice through the squash.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of squash should I peel before cooking?

Some squash skin is edible, while other types of squash have tough skin that can be removed before cooking. Remove the skin of butternut, hubbard, buttercup, and turban squash. If you enjoy the taste, leave the skin on acorn, spaghetti, kabocha, and zucchini squash.
How can I safely cut a hard squash?

Some squash is easier to cut than others. To prevent slipping, place a damp kitchen towel on top of and below the cutting board. Use a serrated knife to saw into the tough skin all the way around until you can apply pressure to cut the squash in half. Another option is to cut off a small bottom piece to create a flat surface, allowing you to press hard into the squash (with a cleaver if necessary) without it rolling around.
How should I store cut squash?

Raw, chopped squash will last a few days in the refrigerator. On the other hand, cooked squash can last up to a week in the fridge. Keep both types in an air-tight container until you're ready to cook or consume it.

Baked vs Roasted Butternut Squash: What to Know About Cooking Each

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Easy Hacks For Peeling and Cutting Squash or Pumpkins (2024)

How to Peel Squash

What You Need

Step 1: Use a Microwave

Step 2: Cut into Two Pieces

Step 3: Peel With Y-Shaped Peeler or Knife

How to Cut Squash

What You Need

Step 1: Cut in Half

Step 2: Remove the Seeds

Step 3: Cut into Chunks or Wedges

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs

Easy Hacks For Peeling and Cutting Squash or Pumpkins? ›

How do you cut butternut squash without peeling it? ›