Kabocha Squash

Kabocha squash may be introduced as soon as baby is ready to start solids, which is generally around 6 months of age.

Kabocha squash has roots in the Americas with deep cultural connections beyond its native region. Colonization and trade brought squash seeds to Asia, where they were propagated over time to become the modern varieties of kabocha enjoyed worldwide today. Kabocha is the Japanese name for several similar varieties of winter squashes, though they are a popular vegetable throughout Asia and equally delicious in savory and sweet cooking, from hobakjuk porridge in South Korea, to a custard dessert called num sang khya l'peou in Cambodia.

Yes. Kabocha squash offers excellent amounts of fiber, folate, vitamins B6 and A, as well as magnesium and vitamin C. Together, these nutrients support baby’s flourishing gut microbiome, neurodevelopment, metabolism, vision, immunity, skin health, and plenty more. In particular, the vitamin C in kabocha squash helps baby more effectively absorb iron from iron-rich plant-based foods like beans, nuts, and seeds. Kabocha squash is also high in plant compounds called carotenoids (specifically beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin), which our bodies convert to vitamin A. These compounds support visual health and offer antioxidant and anti-cancer properties.

★Tip: Kabocha squash skin is edible and nutritious, but it can be very tough and hard to peel. To peel the skin, first halve the squash: sit the squash on a cutting board with the stem facing up, insert the knife near the stem, and press down until the tip reaches the bottom of the squash, then press the knife down to the cutting board. Repeat on the other side of the stem and pull apart the halves. From there, the squash can be de-seeded and cut into wedges—a shape that is easier to peel before or after cooking.

No, although undercooked or raw kabocha squash certainly could be a choking hazard. To minimize the risk, cook kabocha squash until it is completely soft and easily mashes under light pressure. The skin, while not generally a choking hazard, is challenging to chew and digest, so remove the skin before serving kabocha squash to babies under 12 months of age. As always, make sure you create a safe eating environment and stay within an arm’s reach of baby during meals. For more information on choking, visit our sections on gagging and choking and familiarize yourself with the list of common choking hazards.

No. Allergies to ingestion of winter squashes, such as kabocha squash, are uncommon, but have been reported. There have also been reports of people getting an itchy rash on their hands after handling winter squashes. To minimize any reaction, wash your hands immediately after preparing the squash. If baby’s skin is very sensitive, apply a barrier ointment (such as pure white petroleum jelly or a plant-based oil-wax combination) to baby’s face and diaper area before eating, and gently wash face and hands after eating.

People who are allergic to ragweed pollen and/or other fruits and vegetables in the Cucurbitaceae family may also be sensitive to winter squashes, such as kabocha squash, or experience Oral Allergy Syndrome (also known as pollen food allergy syndrome). Oral Allergy Syndrome typically results in short-lived itching, tingling, or burning in the mouth and is unlikely to result in a dangerous reaction. Cooking, canning, and/or peeling squashes (as applicable) may help minimize and even eliminate the reaction.

As with introducing any new food, start by serving a small quantity for the first few servings. If there is no reaction, increase the amount over future meals.

Yes. Kabocha squash contains fiber and fluid, which help support healthy gut bacteria, bulk up poop, and hydrate the intestines for healthy digestion and bowel movements. To minimize digestive discomfort, gradually introduce high-fiber foods like squash. A little gassiness or a few blowouts means that baby’s digestive system is adjusting, and it is not likely a sign that squash needs to be removed from the diet. Lastly, in some cases, the bright orange color of kabocha squash may lead to orange-hued poop. This is totally normal and not a cause for concern. Remember that pooping patterns can vary significantly from baby to baby. If you have concerns about baby’s pooping and digestive function, talk to your pediatric healthcare provider.