Transform your cooking with fresh cut calabaza, the vibrant orange winter squash that brings authentic Latin American and Caribbean flavors to your kitchen. Also known as West Indian pumpkin or Cuban squash, calabaza is a beloved ingredient that offers sweet, nutty notes with a smooth, creamy texture that's perfect for both savory dishes and desserts.
This versatile squash features bright orange flesh that becomes tender and slightly sweet when cooked, making it ideal for traditional dishes like Cuban calabaza con pollo, Puerto Rican viandas, or hearty soups and stews. The pre-cut convenience means you can skip the challenging task of cutting through the tough skin and get straight to cooking. Calabaza works beautifully roasted with olive oil and garlic, mashed as a side dish, or pureed into creamy soups. Its natural sweetness also makes it excellent for baking applications like empanadas, bread, or flan de calabaza.
When cooking with calabaza, treat it similarly to butternut squash or sweet potato. It typically takes 20-25 minutes to roast in cubes at 400°F, and the flesh should be fork-tender when done. This nutritious squash pairs wonderfully with warm spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, as well as savory herbs like cilantro and oregano. Store your cut calabaza in the refrigerator and use within a few days for the best flavor and texture in your favorite Latin-inspired recipes.