What is a practical consideration regarding the hard rind of butternut squash when preparing it?
Answer
The skin is entirely edible once cooked until very tender.
Although butternut squash is a winter squash characterized by a hard rind designed for preservation, this exterior layer is not inherently inedible. If the squash is prepared using methods that involve prolonged, thorough cooking, such as roasting or baking until the flesh becomes extremely soft, the rind itself will soften substantially. Once sufficiently tenderized, the skin can safely be consumed, offering the added advantage of incorporating extra fiber and nutrients into the meal. This contrasts with peeled squash, which results in a smoother texture, whereas skin-on preparation yields a slightly heartier bite.
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