Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsLittle BearButternut Squash Recipe

Butternut Squash Recipe

Inspired by Little Bear
Time1h 30m
Serves4

congee, la jiao jiang, pickled onion, squash seed dukkah, cilantro, basil (add trout roe + $10)

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Ingredients

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Congee

La Jiao Jiang (Spicy Sauce)

Pickled Onion

Method

Congee

  1. 1

    Prepare the Rice

    Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch.

  2. 2

    Cook the Congee

    In a large pot, combine the rinsed rice and water (or chicken broth). Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice breaks down and the congee reaches a creamy consistency. Add salt during the last few minutes of cooking.

La Jiao Jiang

  1. 3

    Mix the Sauce

    In a small bowl, combine chili oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, and sugar. Stir well to combine and set aside for flavors to meld while you prepare the other components.

Pickled Onion

  1. 4

    Prepare the Pickling Liquid

    In a saucepan, combine white vinegar, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat until the sugar and salt dissolve. Remove from heat.

  2. 5

    Pickle the Onions

    Place the sliced red onion in a jar or bowl. Pour the warm pickling liquid over the onions, ensuring they are fully submerged. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate for up to a week.

Squash Seed Dukkah

  1. 6

    Toast the Seeds

    In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the butternut squash seeds, coriander seeds, cumin seeds, and sesame seeds until fragrant, about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

  2. 7

    Grind the Dukkah

    Allow the toasted seeds to cool slightly, then transfer to a food processor. Add salt and pulse until you achieve a coarse texture. Be careful not to over-process.

Garnish

  1. 8

    Prep the Herbs

    Chop the fresh cilantro and basil and set aside for garnish.

  2. 9

    Plate the Dish

    In serving bowls, ladle the congee. Drizzle with la jiao jiang, top with pickled onions, sprinkle squash seed dukkah, and garnish with cilantro and basil. If using trout roe, add a spoonful on top.

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