Some of my absolute favorite foods are those that are naturally gluten-free.  The easiest naturally gluten-free foods to find are whole foods like fruits & vegetables.  When you stick with whole foods and prepare them yourself, there is no label reading or wondering if the food has been cross-contaminated or manufactured in a place that also manufactures or produces gluten-containing products.  Not only are these foods better for those on a gluten-free diet, but they are better for everyone.  There is so much processed food out there.  The less you eat, the better. 

I found this kabocha squash a week or so ago at Kroger.  I had been looking for one for a while, so I was shocked to finally find it!  Here is a little more about the kabocha squash from What’s Cooking America:

Kabocha (Also known as a Ebisu, Delica, Hoka, Hokkaido, or Japanese Pumpkin) – Kabocha is the generic Japanese word for squash, but refers most commonly to a squash of the buttercup type.

Kobocha Squash may be cooked whole or split lengthwise (removing seeds). It has a rich sweet flavor, and often dry and flaky when cooked. Use in any dish in which buttercup squash would work.

Available year-round.

To prepare the squash for roasting, I washed the squash & cut in half lengthwise & removed the seeds.  This was not an easy job, but I persevered and got the job done.  I then chopped into large chunks and placed them on a baking sheet that had been sprayed with Pam.  I then sprayed the squash with Pam and seasoned with sea salt & pepper.  I then roasted in the oven at about 400 for 30 – 40 minutes or so.   I kept checking to make sure I wasn’t over cooking it.  The flesh skin will both get tender & the flesh gets a little flaky.  The skin is edible and I think it adds a nice texture to the squash. 

This squash reminded me a lot of a sweet potato, but richer.  It was so stinkin’ good!!  I have been eating this for days & still have some left!  There are so many things you can do with this.  You could scoop the meat out & mash up for oatmeal, baking or just to eat alone. 

If you are looking for a great new fall veggie to try, don’t pass this one up!!