Black Futsu (Open-pollinated)

(Curcurbita moschata)
Specialty

The same species as butternut but with a radically different appearance. Black Futsu is an heirloom Japanese variety that grows surprisingly well in western Oregon. There are multiple seed vendors in the US including Johnny’s, High Mowing, Adaptive, and Hudson Valley.

The squash are small - perfect for 1 or 2 people - but have superb flavor! Sweet and fruity smelling with very fine flesh, they need little adornment except a hot oven, some oil, salt, and pepper as they develop deep, nutty characteristics after roasting.

Black Futsu is dark green (almost black) when harvested in September but ripens to a tan color in the late winter. The skin is then and tender, so no need to peel before eating.

• extremely high eating quality

• stores well

• versatile in the kitchen, including raw eating

When to Find/Eat: October - February