Sort ingredients
willa
QR Code
Listen
Pdf
Slice the butternut squash in half lengthways, then cut each half into 2.
Scoop out any seeds and pulp with a spoon. Each piece needs a hollow in which to put the rest of the ingredients, so dig a deep hole into each piece with a spoon. Heat the oven to 200C/gas mark 6.
Place the 4 pieces of squash in a baking dish. Brush each half with a little olive oil and pour a little into each hollow. Grind over some salt and pepper, then bake for about 50 minutes until the flesh is tender and giving when pressed.
Roll up the rashers of bacon, then pop one into each of the 4 hollows. Finely chop the thyme leaves and divide between the squash, sprinkling it over the bacon, then pour 1 tbsp of maple syrup into each hollow.
Return the butternut to the oven for 20 minutes or until the bacon fat is golden. Serve 2 pieces per person.
Notes
It is important to make sure the butternut is truly tender before you fill the hollows with the bacon and maple syrup and return it to the oven. To make a vegetarian version, swap the bacon for squares of silken tofu. Serves 2. Ready in about 1 hour