Dutch Crookneck Squash
Estimated Inventory, lb : 0
Description/Taste
Dutch crookneck squash is medium to large in size, averaging 10-20 pounds in weight, and is cylindrical with one bulbous end and a long, curved neck. The tan skin is relatively thin, smooth, and is connected to a rough, green stem. The flesh is deep orange to gold, moist, firm, fine-grained, and there is a small seed cavity in the bulbous end encasing flat, cream-colored seeds. When cooked, Dutch crookneck squash is tender with a mild, sweet, and nutty flavor.
Seasons/Availability
Dutch crookneck squash is available in the fall through winter.
Current Facts
Dutch crookneck squash, botanically classified as Cucurbita moschata, is an heirloom variety of American winter squash and is a part of the Cucurbitaceae family along with pumpkins and gourds. Also known as the Pennsylvania Dutch crookneck and Neck pumpkin, the Dutch crookneck is one of the largest and longest necked squashes in existence. Known for its easy preparation and slicing ability, Dutch crookneck squashes are commonly used to make pies, butter, and soups.
Nutritional Value
Dutch crookneck squash contains vitamin A, potassium, beta-carotene, and folic acid.
Applications
Dutch crookneck squash is best suited for cooked applications such as roasting, baking, boiling, steaming, and grilling and can be used in most recipes that call for pumpkin or butternut squash. Its thinner skin is easier to slice than traditional pumpkin and can be peeled either before or after cooking. Dutch crookneck squash can be pureed and added to soup, sauces, pies, baked puddings, bread, and muffins or it can be cubed and used in risotto, stews, casseroles, and curries. It can also be used to stuff pasta, empanadas, tacos, or enchiladas. Dutch crookneck squash pairs well with eggs, cream, apples, pears, shallots, sage, thyme, parsley, curry, vanilla, nutmeg, walnuts, and ricotta cheese. It will keep for several months when stored in a cool and dry place.
Ethnic/Cultural Info
The Dutch Crookneck squash is a variety that has long been popularly grown by the American Amish, especially in Pennsylvania, for its ease of preparation and rich, creamy flavor. The Amish like to use the squash to make pumpkin butter and the classic dessert, pumpkin pie. The squash is also a prolific grower reaching up to twenty pounds in weight and is commonly sold at local Amish markets and co-ops in the fall.
Geography/History
The Dutch crookneck was a popular squash grown and utilized by the Pennsylvania Dutch in the nineteenth century. The first mention of a winter crookneck resembling the lengthy Dutch crookneck was in writings that date back to 1749 by Peter Kalm, a student of Carl Linnaeus who traveled the Americas cataloging pumpkins. Today Dutch crookneck squash can be found at local farmers markets, specialty grocers, and on online seed catalogs for home gardening in the United States.
Recipe Ideas
Recipes that include Dutch Crookneck Squash. One
is easiest, three is harder.| Coconut + Lime |
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Crookneck Squash Spice Bread |
