**Welcome Barbecue Enthusiasts! Today, we are diving into the frequently asked question: how long to cook butternut squash in pressure cooker. For those of us who love the delights of a well-coordinated barbecue meal, butternut squash can offer the perfect, sweet-and-savory accompaniment. There's something magical about the way its tender, flavorful flesh complements grilled meats. Whether you're hosting a backyard cookout or prepping for a family dinner, getting the cooking time just right in a pressure cooker can make all the difference.

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The Magic of Butternut Squash in BBQ Sides

Butternut squash, with its inherently sweet flavor and creamy texture, can elevate your barbecue sides to new heights. As any seasoned BBQ lover will tell you, the side dishes can make or break the meal. Yet, before we delve into the specifics of cooking butternut squash in a pressure cooker, let's take a moment to appreciate why this vegetable is such a fantastic choice.

First, butternut squash is a versatile ingredient. Its mildly sweet flavor pairs wonderfully with smoky, spicy, and savory barbecue sauces and rubs. Moreover, it's rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber, making it a healthy addition to your BBQ plate. Finally, butternut squash can be cooked in a variety of ways roasting, grilling, steaming, and, of course, pressure cooking.

Pressure Cooking Butternut Squash: The Basics

Using a pressure cooker to prepare butternut squash not only saves time but also retains more nutrients compared to other cooking methods. When cooked under high pressure, the squash becomes incredibly tender, cutting down on the total cooking time without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Preparation

Before you start, it's important to properly prepare your butternut squash. Here are a few steps to make the process smooth:

• Peel the Squash: Use a sharp vegetable peeler to remove the outer skin. Butternut squash can be tough to peel, so take your time and ensure all the skin is removed.
• Halve and Seed: Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds with a spoon.
• Cube the Squash: Cut the squash into uniform 1-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking and quicker pressure build time.

Cooking Time

The key question: how long to cook butternut squash in a pressure cooker? Generally, cubed butternut squash cooks perfectly within 6-8 minutes under high pressure. Heres a handy guide:

• Cubed Squash: 6-8 minutes on high pressure
• Whole Squash: 10-12 minutes on high pressure (but remember to pierce the skin in a few places to prevent bursting)
• Halved Squash: 8-10 minutes on high pressure

After the cooking cycle is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure. Be careful when opening the pressure cooker, as the steam is extremely hot.

Flavoring Your Butternut Squash for Barbecue

Once your butternut squash is perfectly tender, its time to infuse it with the flavors that will make it the star of your BBQ spread. Here are a few flavor ideas:

• Sweet and Spicy: Toss the cooked squash cubes with brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a sweet and spicy kick.
• Savory Herb: Mix the squash with fresh rosemary, thyme, garlic, and a splash of olive oil for a savory side.
• BBQ Glaze: Coat the squash with a mixture of your favorite BBQ sauce and a touch of honey, then roast it in the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes.

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Pairing Butternut Squash with Your BBQ Spread

Butternut squash pairs beautifully with a wide array of BBQ dishes. Considering its flavor profile, here are some excellent pairings:

• Grilled Chicken: The mild sweetness of the squash complements the savory and smoky flavors of grilled chicken.
• BBQ Ribs: Richly flavored and falling-off-the-bone ribs benefit from the creamy texture and light sweetness of butternut squash.
• Vegetarian BBQ: Pair your butternut squash with other grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and corn for a delightful veggie BBQ platter.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Butternut Squash

Here are some additional tips to ensure your butternut squash turns out perfectly every time:

• Avoid Overcooking: Keep a close eye on the cooking time. Overcooked squash can become mushy and lose its shape.
• Consistency is Key: Ensure your squash cubes are of uniform size for even cooking.
• Spice it Up: Dont be afraid to experiment with spices. Butternut squash is a blank canvas that can absorb a variety of flavors.

Internal Resources

Check out more related articles to enhance your pressure cooking experience:

• Cow Skin in Pressure Cooker
• Cook Carnitas
• Sushi Rice Cooking Tips

External Resources

For additional insights and techniques on pressure cooking, visit these great resources:

• How to Cook Potatoes in a Pressure Cooker

FAQ Section

Can I cook butternut squash without peeling it?

Yes, you can cook butternut squash without peeling it, but it's recommended to slice it in half and pierce the skin to prevent bursting.

What type of pressure release is best?

For butternut squash, a quick pressure release works best to prevent overcooking.

Can I store leftovers?

Absolutely. Cooked butternut squash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

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