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Black Futsu Squash Delivery or Pickup
The Instacart guide to Black Futsu squash
About Black Futsu squash
The Black Futsu is an uncommon Japanese winter squash. This variety is easy to pick out from a crowd because of its black rind covered in warts and bumps. However, as a Black Futsu matures, its rind yellows and then turns gray. A little while longer on the vine, the gray starts to offer orange and greenish hues.
When you cut the Black Futsu squash open, it should reveal flesh that's bright orange. The flesh of the Black Futsu is described as having a flavor between pumpkins and chestnuts. The flesh is buttery and sweet with slight hints of nuttiness. Once you open it up, you should see that the skin is very thin.
Black Futsu squash range from the size of a grapefruit to about three times as large. On average, they weigh anywhere from three to five pounds.
The Black Futsu squash has been cultivated in Japan for centuries. This squash is traditionally prepared during celebrations for the winter solstice in Japan. It's often mixed with red beans in sweet bean soups, which offer good luck as the days begin to grow longer. Since the Black Futsu has an impressive shelf life, many people save them to enjoy during the winter months.
Though the Black Futsu squash is a somewhat rare item, it is rising in popularity in the United States and Europe. You may be able to find the Black Futsu in grocery stores that specialize in produce or farmer's markets near you. Many independent growers choose to add the Black Futsu to their garden to enjoy their hardiness, staying power, and unique appearance.
How to pick out Black Futsu squash
The Black Futsu squash goes through many color changes as it ripens. Try to avoid purchasing Black Futsu with green skins, as these are likely underripe. If you know your Black Futsu has just been taken off its vine, let it cure in a warm spot for two or three weeks. The rind should be hard — if you find soft spots on its exterior, it's probably been around for too long.
How to cook with Black Futsu squash
Surprisingly, all of the Black Futsu squash is edible — even the skin. If you have a whole Black Futsu, wash it thoroughly to remove dirt and debris from its exterior. Cut the squash in half from top to bottom. Use a spoon to scoop out the seeds. From there, you can prepare the Black Futsu according to your recipe.
If you don't have a recipe in mind, you can continue by cutting the halves into half-inch wedges, tossing them with coconut oil, and baking them at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for half an hour. You can also cook them with miso, garlic, or curry if you plan on eating them as a side. If the squash is the main dish, you may consider leaving the halves intact and filling the hollowed-out portions with quinoa or lentils topped with fresh vegetables.
Black Futsu squash is a healthy addition to any meal. This squash is a great source of vitamins A and C, fiber, iron, beta-carotene, and calcium. If you're looking for a delicious way to replace processed foods, a simple recipe that spotlights the Black Futsu squash is worth trying out.
Black Futsu Squash Near Me
Buy your favorite Black Futsu Squash online with Instacart. Order Black Futsu Squash from local and national retailers near you and enjoy on-demand, contactless delivery or pickup within 2 hours.
FAQs about Black Futsu squash
You can certainly try, but you don't have to. The Black Futsu's thin skin is edible, so you can leave it on as you prepare the squash to give it a chewier texture. Just be sure to wash and scrub your squash before you eat the skin.
Black Futsu lasts an impressive amount of time. If you keep it in a cool, dark place, the Black Futsu can last up to six months. Try to leave at least 2 inches of stem on the squash if you're planning on holding onto it for a couple of months. Try to keep your squash whole until you're ready to use it. If you have leftovers, you can place your Black Futsu in a sealable plastic bag and keep it in the freezer for up to one year.
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