Pimp That Pumpkin

07/10/19

Our orange American cousin! While we were bending knives as we cut out eyes from turnips for Halloween lanterns, our friends over the pond were carving through pumpkin flesh like it was butter.

We’ve now adopted the pumpkin in the UK, as out go-to lantern of choice but we haven’t really got the hang of what to do with the leftover pumpkin flesh quite yet. There are some people who may be able to whip up a quick pumpkin pie or a pumpkin mash, but – and hands up on this one – how many of you have had great intentions to be more adventurous with pumpkin leftovers, only to sweep them into the bin when no-one is looking? It’s alright. No judgement here. We’re all busy people but it can be tricky to know what to do with it and transform this mass of orange pumpkin into something tasty.

Let’s see what’s out there…
Spiced pumpkin soup - yes, an easy one to start off with. It’s perfect for this time of year. The nights are long and we could use something a bit more warming. You can go for something plain or add your own touch.

Pumpkin Lasagne – Great for families who are trying to cut down on their meat in take too. As with mince, you can use the JD Seasonings Bolognese rub to infuse your lasagne with a bit of traditional Italian flavour and throw in some spinach for a bit of added iron.

Pumpkin Curry – Would you believe it! Pumpkin works really well in a curry, especially the more aromatic curries that don’t go large on the heat. While pumpkin will work well with a mild curry, it can make a really good alternative to spuds when it comes to Bombay Potatoes. A great side, it can complete a curry banquet but it can really lift a mid-week meal with a grilled chicken breast and a green salad.

Pumpkin Chilli – Saved the best to last! Could there be anything more warming that chilli-spiced pumpkin with garlic, onions and a mix of beans to get you through the late autumn? This dish really has it all – it’s meat-free, it’s got added fibre and protein from the beans, it’s kind on your pocket and it makes the most of your pumpkin cutaways. This Chilli Con Pumpkin is hard to beat.

Now that we’re reached the end of what we can (reasonably) do with a pumpkin, it’s only fair to share a few of the scare stories that didn’t make the list: Pumpkin hummus, pumpkin vodka, pumpkin salsa and pumpkin crisps.

What a horror show!