How To Give Butternut Squash All The Crunchy Textures This Fall

Autumn paints our world with a palette of oranges, yellows, and browns. Amidst the fall leaves, pumpkin spice, and cozy knitwear, is a particular orange-hued delight that is a favorite among food enthusiasts — the butternut squash. This fall fruit, with its sweet and nutty taste, makes for a wonderful ingredient in soups, salads, and pies. But if you're craving crunchy texture, then it's time you explored the world of butternut squash fritters.

The beauty of these fritters lies in their simplicity. With just a few ingredients and steps, you can transform the humble squash into an autumn delight with the outer layer crispy and the inside remaining warm and creamy. Not to forget the delectable flavors you can add to this simple dish. Tap into your creativity and season your butternut squash fritters with almost any spice that you like, from the traditional nutmeg and sage to cumin or even a hint of chili. 

To begin your fritter-making journey, you first need to peel and grate the butternut squash into very thin pieces. This not only ensures that it cooks evenly but also gives it that desirable crispy texture. Think of how finely shredded potatoes make the crispiest hash browns, and you're on the right track. Next, add your seasoning of choice and then to bind the mixture, add eggs and a touch of flour. This not only keeps the grated squash together but also contributes to the crispy exterior. Now whisk together the grated squash, seasonings, beaten eggs, and flour until you have a batter with a malleable consistency.

Heat some oil in your cast iron skillet — the liquid should simmer but not smoke. Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the pan, flattening them slightly to resemble small discs. Fry until they're golden brown on both sides and then transfer them onto a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve these fritters hot, perhaps with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or even a tangy yogurt dip. The result is a plateful of crunchy and warm delights that promise to elevate your fall culinary experience.