The difference between delicate squash and butternut

October is the month of pumpkin. And not just because the Halloween pumpkin is the most famous and widespread symbol to celebrate the night of the witches. The sweetish taste and the firm consistency of the pulp make the pumpkin a versatile and ideal ingredient for making the most varied recipes fall recipes, but not everyone knows that there are many varieties on the market. Let’s find out together the difference between pumpkin Delica and squash Butternutboth used and loved in the kitchen.

Delica Pumpkin vs Butternut, the difference

The Delica pumpkin it is among the most loved and widespread varieties in Italy, where it is grown above all in Lombardy, Veneto and Emilia-Romagna. Born from a crossbreed, it has Japanese origins and compared to other varieties you can find it on the shelves already in the summer. How to distinguish it? One of its characteristics is precisely its appearance: the shape is rounded, the skin is thin and of color deep dark green with brown grooves. In addition, its size is small and its weight is about 1-2kg. His pulp it is yellow-orange and is very compact, firm, dry and sweet: this is precisely what makes it so versatile in the kitchen.

Delicate pumpkin

From a nutritional point of view, the Delica pumpkin is rich in carotenes with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, but also contains a large amount of fibre, minerals and vitamins which make it an important fsource of well-being for our body. Magnesium, potassium, sodium, phosphorus, vitamin E and Omega 3 are just some of the nutritional benefits of pumpkin, which also make it ideal for those with intestinal problems or who need to rebalance the intestinal flora. In kitchen it is excellent for risottos, as a filling for tortelli and cappellacci, or stewed or baked in cubes if you prefer… the choice is yours!

The butternut squash

The butternut squash it is a winter variety that is very common in Australia, New Zealand and the United States, but it is also appreciated in Italy as it is very similar to the violin pumpkin due to its oblong shape. As the Delica this variety is also characterized by its thin skin, but its aftertaste tends towards fresh hazelnuts. How to distinguish it? Compared to the Delica pumpkin, its shape is more bell-shaped and the peel color it tends to green-orange. There pulp instead it is compact but at the same time very tender, contains rather small seeds and the color is yellow-orange. Even its weight is decidedly different, in fact it can reach up to 3kg and reach 35cm in length.

Like other varieties, Butternut squash is also rich in mineral salts and vitamins. In particular, it contains a lot of vitamin A, beta-carotene and vitamin C, essential for eyesight, skin but also for immune system. In addition, it contains a good amount of antioxidants and fibers which make it a valid ally against cellular aging and for those suffering from bowel problems.

In the kitchen? This pumpkin variety is especially versatile: you can roast it in the oven (try it with the skin on!), prepare creamy soups and steam or fry it. But thanks to his nutty aftertasteit is also ideal for desserts, cakes, biscuits and jams, or you can combine it with tasty savory dishes.