Acorn Squash

This winter squash is shaped like an acorn but rather larger, up to 8 inches long and 4 to 5 inches thick, and can weigh up to 2 pounds. It has a smooth, hard rind which is widely ribbed and changes from dark green to orange during storage. The pale orange flesh is quite firm in texture, slightly sweetish and there is a large seed cavity. Bake it whole, stuffed with a spiced ground meat and rice mixture; or peel it, cut it in chunks and boil or steam until soft, then mash with plenty of black pepper and butter.