Holiday's

The holidays have been very busy, noticeable by the lack of posts here. I've done a lot of cooking inviting friends and family over, reacquainting with people that I haven't talked to in years, making new friends, earning new friends back from the past. I wanted to take a moment to share a recipe that I came up with that has been consistently a hit with everyone that has come over. I tested a vegetarian modification that is great as well. Hope everyone is enjoying their time with loved ones regardless of religious views.

Stewed Squash
• 4 strips bacon, diced (A few drops of liquid smoke for the vegetarians)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3/4 cup small diced onions
• 1 clove minced garlic
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 butternut squash, peeled, seeds removed and diced
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 cups chicken stock


Render bacon or add liquid smoke. Add the olive oil then onions cooking until lightly caramelized, Add the garlic, butter and squash increasing the heat to medium-high. Cook the squash for 5 minutes. Add the nutmeg, thyme, salt, pepper, and maple syrup. Mix well and add the stock. Bring the liquid to a boil, cover the pan, and reduce the heat to medium. Cook until the squash is tender and most of the liquid has evaporated, about 15 minutes. Stir the squash and then season again if necessary.