Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect results

Ingredients

0/9 checked
2
servings
0.5 cup

Barley

cooked

1 unit

Apple

skinned, cored and diced

1 tbsp

Dried Basil

0.5 cup

Pecans

chopped

2 tbsp

Maple Syrup

1 tsp

Cinnamon

2 unit

Acorn Squash

2 tbsp

Olive Oil

0.5 cup

Apple Juice

Step 1
~6 min

Cook barley according to package directions.

Step 2
~6 min

Set cooked barley aside.

Step 3
~6 min

In a medium bowl, mix diced apples, dried basil, chopped pecans, maple syrup, and cinnamon.

Step 4
~6 min

Combine the apple mixture with the cooked barley.

Step 5
~6 min

Cut acorn squash in half lengthwise.

Step 6
~6 min

Remove seeds and membranes from the squash halves.

Step 7
~6 min

Place squash halves cut side down in a baking dish.

Step 8
~6 min

Sprinkle each half with olive oil.

Step 9
~6 min

Place squash halves on a baking sheet or baking dish.

Step 10
~6 min

Fill each squash cavity with the barley-apple stuffing mixture.

Key Technique: Stuffing
Step 11
~6 min

Cover the baking dish with foil.

Step 12
~6 min

Bake covered at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.

Step 13
~6 min

Remove the foil and bake for another 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender and browned.

Step 14
~6 min

Boil apple juice until it reduces to a syrup consistency.

Step 15
~6 min

Drizzle the apple juice syrup over the top of the squash before serving.

Pro Tips & Suggestions

Expert advice for the best results

Roast the squash halves for a few minutes before stuffing to make them easier to handle.

Add dried cranberries or raisins to the stuffing for extra sweetness and flavor.

Toast the pecans before chopping for a more intense nutty flavor.

Cooking Experience

Everything you need to know before you start

Time & Preparation

Cleanup Time

15 minutes

Batch Cooking
Friendly
Make Ahead

The stuffing can be prepared a day in advance.

Freezable
Kid Friendly

Cooking Environment

Messiness Level
Medium
Smell Intensity
Medium
Noise Level
Low
Elder Friendly
Suitable for seniors

Plating & Presentation

Serving Suggestions

Serve as a side dish for Thanksgiving or a fall dinner party.

Pair with a simple green salad for a light and healthy meal.

Perfect Pairings

Food Pairings

Roasted turkey
Pork loin

Drink Pairings

Cultural Heritage

Discover the story behind this recipe

Origin & Tradition

Region of Origin

North America

Cultural Significance

Popular fall dish, often associated with Thanksgiving.

Style

Occasions & Celebrations

Festive Uses

Thanksgiving
Fall Harvest Festivals

Occasion Tags

Thanksgiving
Fall Dinner
Holiday Feast

Popularity Score

70/100

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