Pattypan squash

Pattypan squash
Pattypan squash
	Pattypan or white squash
Species	Cucurbita pepo

Pattypan squash (or 'patty pan') is a varietal group of summer squash (Cucurbita pepo) notable for its round and shallow shape, and scalloped edges, somewhat resembling a flying saucer. The name "pattypan" derives from "a pan for baking a patty". Its French name, pâtisson,^{[citation needed]} derives from a Provençal word for a cake made in a scalloped mould. The pattypan squash is also known as scallop squash,^[1] granny squash, custard squash,^[2] ciblème in Cajun French,^[3] button squash, scallopini,^[1] or simply "squash" in Australian English, or schwoughksie squash (pronounced "shwooxie squash"), especially if grown in the Poughkeepsie, New York, area.^[4]

Pattypan squash comes in white, yellow, orange, light green, dark green, and multicolored varieties.^[2] The squash is most tender when immature. In fine cuisine, its tender flesh is sometimes scooped out and mixed with flavorings, such as garlic, prior to reinsertion; the scooped-out husk of a pattypan is also sometimes used as a decorative container for other foods. Pattypan is a good source of magnesium, niacin, and vitamins A and C.^[1] One cup contains approximately 20 to 30 calories and no fat. It is often sliced, baked,^[2] or coated and fried until golden brown, or simply boiled. In Polish and Ukrainian cuisine, they are pickled in sweet vinegar.^[1]