Glenn Lindgren: Calabaza is a type of cooking pumpkin used in Cuban cuisine.
Jorge Castillo: When a Cuban recipe calls for pumpkin, don't even think of substituting one of those big orange Halloween varieties!
Raúl Musibay: The calabaza is more closely related to squash with a firm flesh and mild flavor.
Jorge Castillo: A nice way to develop a taste for this Cuban treat is to prepare some on the grill! We also have heard from some people who substitute butternut squash for calabaza with some success. If you're in an area where you just can't get real calabaza, you might try butternut squash. The flavor and texture are similar, but not exactly the same!
