Here’s a versatile guide for pumpkin—from cooking to baking, plus a simple recipe to make the most of it 🎃
About Pumpkin
- Nutrition: Low in calories, high in fiber, rich in beta-carotene (Vitamin A), Vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants.
- Uses: Soups, pies, breads, muffins, roasted sides, smoothies, and even savory dishes.
- Forms: Fresh pumpkin, canned pumpkin puree, pumpkin seeds (pepitas).
Quick Tips for Using Pumpkin
- Fresh Pumpkin:
- Cut in half, scoop out seeds, roast at 375°F (190°C) for 45–60 mins until tender.
- Scoop flesh to use in soups, pies, or breads.
- Canned Pumpkin:
- Use for baking, smoothies, or as a thickener. Make sure it’s pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
- Pumpkin Seeds:
- Rinse, dry, and roast with a pinch of salt or spices at 325°F (165°C) for 10–15 minutes.
Simple Roasted Pumpkin Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 small pumpkin, peeled and cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Optional: ½ tsp cinnamon or smoked paprika
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss pumpkin cubes with oil, salt, pepper, and optional spices.
- Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway, until golden and tender.
- Serve as a side dish, in salads, or as a snack.
Popular Pumpkin Ideas
- Pumpkin Soup: Blend roasted pumpkin with onions, garlic, broth, and cream.
- Pumpkin Bread or Muffins: Add pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar.
- Pumpkin Smoothie: Pumpkin puree + banana + Greek yogurt + cinnamon.
- Pumpkin Curry: Use cubes in coconut milk-based curries.
I can also give you a super-moist, spiced pumpkin bread recipe or a creamy pumpkin soup that’s perfect for cozy meals.
Which one do you want first?