Mango Bacon Butternut Squash Hash: A Sweet and Savory Delight

Are you looking for a breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner that’s packed with flavor, color, and nutrients? Look no further than this Mango Bacon Butternut Squash Hash! This recipe is a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and smoky elements, making it a truly unforgettable culinary experience. The sweetness of the mango perfectly complements the earthiness of the butternut squash and the saltiness of the bacon, creating a harmonious balance that will tantalize your taste buds. This hash is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it to your liking by adding different vegetables, spices, or herbs. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to impress.

## Why This Recipe Works

This Mango Bacon Butternut Squash Hash recipe works because it cleverly combines contrasting flavors and textures that complement each other beautifully. Here’s a breakdown of why this combination is so successful:

* **Sweetness:** The mango provides a natural sweetness that balances the savory and salty elements. It also adds a tropical twist that elevates the dish. Butternut squash also contributes a subtle sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
* **Savory:** The bacon provides a rich, savory, and smoky flavor that forms the foundation of the dish. Its saltiness is crucial for bringing out the other flavors.
* **Earthy:** Butternut squash has a mild, earthy flavor that grounds the dish and adds a touch of complexity. It also provides a creamy texture that contrasts with the crispy bacon.
* **Textural Contrast:** The combination of soft butternut squash, crispy bacon, and tender mango creates a delightful textural experience. Adding onions and peppers contribute a slight bite and crunch.
* **Nutritional Value:** This hash is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Butternut squash is an excellent source of Vitamin A and fiber, while mango provides Vitamin C and antioxidants. Bacon contributes protein, and the addition of vegetables adds even more nutrients.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

* **Butternut Squash:** 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and diced into ½-inch cubes.
* **Bacon:** 6-8 slices of bacon, preferably thick-cut, diced.
* **Mango:** 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes.
* **Onion:** 1 medium onion, diced.
* **Bell Pepper:** 1 bell pepper (any color), diced.
* **Garlic:** 2-3 cloves garlic, minced.
* **Olive Oil:** 2 tablespoons olive oil.
* **Salt:** To taste.
* **Black Pepper:** To taste.
* **Spices (Optional):** ½ teaspoon chili powder, ¼ teaspoon cumin, ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika.
* **Fresh Herbs (Optional):** Chopped cilantro or parsley, for garnish.
* **Optional Toppings:** Fried egg, avocado slices, hot sauce, lime wedges.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own Mango Bacon Butternut Squash Hash:

**Step 1: Prepare the Butternut Squash**

* Begin by peeling the butternut squash. This can be a bit tricky, so use a sharp vegetable peeler or a knife. Be careful to avoid cutting yourself.
* Cut the squash in half and scoop out the seeds using a spoon.
* Dice the squash into ½-inch cubes. Aim for uniform size to ensure even cooking.

**Step 2: Cook the Bacon**

* In a large skillet or cast-iron pan, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
* Once the bacon is cooked, remove it from the pan with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease. Reserve the bacon grease in the pan.

**Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables**

* Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the pan with the reserved bacon grease. If there isn’t enough grease, add a tablespoon of olive oil.
* Cook the onion and bell pepper over medium heat until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally.
* Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

**Step 4: Add the Butternut Squash**

* Add the diced butternut squash to the pan with the sautéed vegetables.
* Season with salt, black pepper, and any optional spices you’re using (chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika).
* Stir well to combine the squash with the other ingredients.
* Cover the pan and cook over medium-low heat until the squash is tender, about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

**Step 5: Add the Mango and Bacon**

* Once the butternut squash is tender, add the diced mango and cooked bacon to the pan.
* Gently stir to combine the ingredients. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the mango is slightly warmed through.
* Be careful not to overcook the mango, as it can become mushy.

**Step 6: Serve and Enjoy**

* Remove the hash from the heat and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or parsley, if desired.
* Serve the Mango Bacon Butternut Squash Hash immediately. It’s delicious on its own or with a fried egg, avocado slices, hot sauce, or a squeeze of lime.

## Tips and Variations

Here are some tips and variations to make this recipe even more customized to your liking:

* **Roast the Butternut Squash:** For a deeper, more caramelized flavor, roast the butternut squash in the oven before adding it to the hash. Toss the diced squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly browned.
* **Add Other Vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables to the hash, such as sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, or kale. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
* **Use Different Fruit:** If you don’t have mango, you can substitute it with other fruits like peaches, pineapple, or apples. Consider the sweetness level of the fruit and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
* **Make it Vegetarian:** Omit the bacon and use a plant-based alternative, such as tempeh bacon or smoked tofu. You can also add smoked paprika to enhance the smoky flavor.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
* **Add an Egg:** Top the hash with a fried egg for a complete and satisfying meal. The runny yolk adds richness and flavor.
* **Use Different Herbs:** Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage to add depth of flavor.
* **Make it Ahead:** You can prepare the butternut squash and bacon ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. This will save you time when you’re ready to cook the hash.
* **Add Nuts or Seeds:** For added crunch and texture, sprinkle some toasted nuts or seeds on top of the hash before serving. Pecans, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds would be great choices.
* **Add a Drizzle:** A drizzle of maple syrup or balsamic glaze can add a touch of sweetness and acidity to balance the flavors.

## Serving Suggestions

This Mango Bacon Butternut Squash Hash is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions:

* **Breakfast or Brunch:** Serve it as a standalone breakfast or brunch dish, topped with a fried egg and avocado slices.
* **Side Dish:** Serve it as a side dish to grilled chicken, pork, or fish.
* **Light Dinner:** Enjoy it as a light and flavorful dinner on its own or with a side salad.
* **Tacos or Wraps:** Use it as a filling for tacos or wraps. Add some shredded cheese, sour cream, and salsa for a complete meal.
* **Grain Bowl:** Add it to a grain bowl with quinoa, rice, or farro. Top with your favorite toppings, such as roasted vegetables, chickpeas, and a tahini dressing.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

*Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.*

* **Serving Size:** 1 cup
* **Calories:** 300-350
* **Fat:** 15-20g
* **Saturated Fat:** 5-7g
* **Cholesterol:** 40-50mg
* **Sodium:** 300-400mg
* **Carbohydrates:** 30-40g
* **Fiber:** 5-7g
* **Sugar:** 15-20g
* **Protein:** 8-10g

## Storage Instructions

* **Refrigerator:** Store leftover Mango Bacon Butternut Squash Hash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat the hash in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. You may need to add a little bit of oil or water to prevent it from drying out.
* **Freezing:** While you can freeze the hash, the texture of the butternut squash and mango may change slightly. If you choose to freeze it, store it in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

## Conclusion

This Mango Bacon Butternut Squash Hash is a delicious and versatile recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors is sure to please your taste buds, and the dish is packed with nutrients to keep you feeling good. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy this delightful culinary creation! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and make it your own. Happy cooking!