Shokichi Shiro (F1)

(Curcurbita maxima)
Kabocha

Shokichi Shiro is one of our new favorites. It is a gray kabocha weighing in at less than a pound. It is very sweet and flavorful in a tiny package! Seed is available from Johnny’s. It is quite productive giving nearly 20 fruits per plant. Buy it early as tabletop decor and cut into it after a few months.

Laura Brown bakes it (it only takes 15 minutes) and serves it to her toddler directly out of the skin! Rest assured, however, the adults will love it to. A simple roasting creates a wonderful winter side dish.

Shokichi Shiro is long storing (through January) and turns color from grey to salmon pink as it ripens.

• good flavor and quality

• good storage

• personal-sized

When to Find/Eat: October - January