Made with simple ingredients, this Three Sisters harvest bowl combines ancient ingredients for a protein-packed dish that’s perfect for the holidays. This idea comes from Indigenous agricultural traditions involving hominy, beans, and squash.

Platter with acorn squash, black beans, and hominy.

I love learning about cultures and traditions, and this harvest bowl recipe has a strong tradition behind it. To use the three sisters’ planting method, corn, beans, and squash are planted in mounds of dirt in that order. This allows each plant to grow healthy and strong and work together in pollination and support. The beans grow up the corn stalks for support; how neat is that? Each one works together to grow, so these crops are some of the most important in Native tradition.

Plus, pairing the squash, the beans, and the corn brings together all the essential amino acids to make it a complete protein when eaten together as a bowl! This would be perfect for a Thanksgiving side dish or any holiday gathering. The flavors are neutral enough to fit with any main dish!

Reader rating

★★★★★

“This recipe was really delicious and very filling. I left out the mint because I didn’t have any. This would make a great side dish for Thanksgiving dinner.” —Patti

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grab these ingredients

These ingredients grow well together, and they are the perfect flavor combination. If you haven’t purchased hominy before, it’s usually with canned beans. Jump to the recipe card for the full quantities.

Acorn Squash: This is a quintessential “winter squash.” While I love the presentation of acorn squash in this recipe, you could use almost any type of winter squash here!
Hominy: This canned maize is large and chewy.
Black Beans: Nothing is simpler than opening a can of beans! Feel free to make your own from dried beans.
Maple Syrup: Maple syrup is the perfect fall sweetener. Agave or honey works, too.
Mint & Sage: These pair nicely for major herb flavor!

hominy who?

What exactly is hominy? It’s field corn (also called maize) that has the hull stripped off. Once cooked, it is large, puffy, and chewy. It almost looks like popcorn! A can of hominy can be used just like a can of corn or beans, like in succotash. Ground hominy is also what is known as masa for making tortillas.

How to make Three Sisters Harvest Bowl

This is a quick recipe since some ingredients come in cans! It’s great for whipping up on the stove while filling the oven with a delicious main protein. Jump to the recipe card for the full instructions.

Step 1: Cut the Squash
Slice the acorn squash in half. Scoop out the seeds and then slice them into 1/2-inch-thick half-moons.

Cutting acorn squash into slices. — Feel free to use leftover roasted squash or saute it ahead on purpose! This is the longest portion of the recipe, and you can have it ready to combine and reheat.

Step 2: Cook the Squash
Heat the oil in a large skillet. Cook the squash and shallot until fork tender. You can add the shallot after the squash so it doesn’t burn. If it does cook too quickly, add a splash of water and turn down the heat.

Step 3: Assemble
Add the remaining ingredients to the pan and cover to heat through. This should only take a few minutes, and you’ll be ready to serve!

Recipe tips

More Corn: In a pinch, if you can’t find hominy, OR you just love corn, feel free to substitute or add in a can of corn or frozen corn.

Soak It Up: If you avoid canned goods or always keep a stash of cooked beans in the freezer, you can always cook your beans from dried.

make a full fall feast

This comforting side dish will add lots of color to the plate no matter what you serve it with.

Whole Roasted Cauliflower is a stunning centerpiece that will roast in the oven while you use the stove for the Harvest Bowl.
Creamy Pumpkin Pasta will bring a wonderful creamy mouthfeel next to the chewy side.
Mushroom Meatloaf is a family favorite.

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