What is "kabocha"

n. A variety of Japanese winter squash, from species ''Cucurbita maxima''.

Kabocha (; from Japanese カボチャ, 南瓜) is an Asian variety of winter squash of the species Cucurbita maxima. In some cultures it is revered as an aphrodisiac.Aphrodisiac references

• Cracking Open the Kabocha Squash KUOW
• Aphrodisiacs Fact or Fiction

Kabocha is commonly called Japanese pumpkin, especially in Australia and New Zealand. It is also called kabocha squash in North America. In Japan, kabocha may refer to either this squash or to the Western-style pumpkin.

Varieties include: Ajihei, Ajihei No. 107, Ajihei No. 331, Ajihei No. 335, Cutie, Ebisu, Emiguri, and Miyako.

Many of the kabocha in the market are Kuri kabocha, a type created from Seiyo kabocha (buttercup squash). It has a strong yet sweet flavor and moist, fluffy texture, which is like chestnuts. It is found in the market under such brand names as Miyako, Ebisu, Kurokawa, and Akazukin.