In some parts of the world, the word 'pumpkin' refers to any winter squash, such as acorn, butternut, or Hubbard. In the United States, 'pumpkin' refers specifically to a determined kind of squash with an orange skin and orange flesh. It is most generally used for Halloween decorations and to make pumpkin pie while the holidays.
Both the seeds and flesh of the pumpkin are edible and can be used in many recipes. The seeds are full of zinc, which is a mineral that is vital for good health. Add the roasted seeds into cereals, snack mixes, breads or just eat them as a snack. If you have tasted pumpkin pie and butternut squash, you have a general idea how the pumpkin flesh will taste. This vegetable can be made into both savory and sweet dishes your family will love.
The Many Uses of Pumpkin
Roast a whole pumpkin when you want to make a big impression. Use pumpkin to make seasonal sweet breads every person will rave about. Drop in a few cranberries to add more holiday flavor. Use pumpkin butter on your toast in the morning or add some to your granola and yogurt in the morning. Drop in a few toasted seeds while you are at it.
Make pumpkin into cupcakes, muffins, and cakes. Pour the batter into a jellyroll pan to make a flat cake. Use cream cheese filling and roll it up for a yummy pumpkin roll. Pumpkin cheesecake is a common fall contribution in many restaurants and grocery stores. Try development your own instead... It is not difficult. Use pumpkin in cookies and puddings to add more of this tasty vegetable to your diet.
Classic pumpkin soup is a tasty way to enjoy pumpkin. The creamy goodness is a great appetizer or you can make it a unblemished meal. Add some spices, or make it with roasted pumpkin to add even more flavor. Top it off with some chopped herbs or a swirl of sour cream to make it look as overwhelming as it tastes.
Other Uses for Pumpkin
Chunks of pumpkin can be added to rice or pasta. Make a rich pumpkin risotto for something a itsybitsy different. Make a filling from pumpkin to use in ravioli or other stuffed pasta. Mix it with other vegetables like greens or fennel for a tasty side dish. Try mixing it with polenta and cheese for a new dish. Pumpkin is full of beta-carotene and many other vitamins and minerals. Adding this vegetable to your menu helps your family get these needed nutrients to remain healthy.
Add pumpkin to your morning by development pumpkin donuts, muffins, scones, and pancakes. Serve your pancakes with whipped topping or syrup. Pumpkin is so versatile it works equally well with sweet or savory. Mix up the flavors by adding crumbled bacon bits to your pancake batter.
For a sweetmeat that is not as sweet as cookies or cake, try pumpkin ice cream, tarts, or pies. They will add the flavor of the season to your meal. While fresh pumpkin is seasonal, you can always-used canned pumpkin the rest of the year.
The Truth About Pumpkins