Red Thai Chicken Curry with Butternut Squash

Step 1: Cut the butternut squash in half (the top half is easiest) and peel or slice off the outer skin. Cut the butternut squash into bite size pieces and set aside. Step 2: Mince the garlic and small red or green hot pepper and set aside. Step 3: Heat 3 tbsp of olive oil into a medium sized sauce pan, and add butternut squash, garlic, and hot pepper and saute over med-low heat until the squash begins to slightly soften (approx 10 mins) Step 4: add red curry paste and stir for a few minutes, then add 1/2 can of coconut milk and reserve the rest. Step 5: add chicken pieces and cook for a further 10 mins, add more coconut milk if needed and add the optional items (fish sauce, lemongrass, and creamed coconut) Step 6: Add rest of the coconut milk and cook until chicken is done and squash is very soft. You have the option to reserve 1/4 cup of the coconut milk to add to the cooked jasmine rice. Step 7: Spoon cooked rice into bowls and top with the curry and garnish with chopped fresh coriander. You can make this dish without the chicken for a vegetarian option.