Pumpkin Puree Recipe
Making homemade pumpkin puree is a simple process that involves roasting or steaming fresh pumpkin until it’s tender, then pureeing it until smooth.
Homemade Pumpkin Puree vs Store Bought
Making your own pumpkin puree ensures you know exactly what is in your purchase: from where you source the pumpkins to how they are raised, you are in control. Plus there is something cathartic about holding fresh ingredients in your hands before you use them. A canned good does not have that same feeling.
Some canned store bought pumpkin puree’s include other squash types… sneaky right? Plus they load them up with preservatives to extend shelf life, which no one wants to put in their body. To be honest, loading your body up with artificial preservatives does the exact oppostie of preserving your body, but using God given ingredients in all of the food you put in your body does in fact preserve your youth.
Pumpkin puree is a healthy and nutritious addition to your diet for several reasons
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Pumpkin puree is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. Vitamin A is particularly abundant in pumpkin, promoting good vision and a healthy immune system.
- Low in Calories: Pumpkin puree is relatively low in calories and can be used to add a creamy, satisfying texture to dishes without a high calorie count. It’s a great choice for those looking to manage their calorie intake.
- High in Fiber: The fiber content in pumpkin puree aids in digestion and can help you feel full, which may assist with weight management. Fiber also contributes to overall gut health.
- Antioxidant Properties: The orange color of pumpkin indicates the presence of beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant. Antioxidants help protect your cells from damage, reduce inflammation, and may lower the risk of chronic diseases.
- Heart Health: The potassium in pumpkin puree can contribute to heart health by helping to regulate blood pressure. Additionally, the fiber content may help reduce cholesterol levels, further promoting cardiovascular well-being.
- Healthy Skin: The vitamins and antioxidants in pumpkin can benefit your skin, promoting a healthy complexion.
- Immune Support: The combination of vitamins and antioxidants in pumpkin can bolster your immune system, helping your body defend against illnesses.
- Low Fat Content: Pumpkin puree is naturally low in fat, making it a good choice for those watching their fat intake.
Lessons learned in the kitchen
One delectable way to incorporate this pumpkin goodness is through Pumpkin Risotto Recipe. The creamy and savory notes of the pumpkin puree perfectly complement the creaminess of a well-prepared risotto, creating a luxurious, fall-inspired dish that will satisfy your taste buds.
Use sugar pumpkins — the others just do not compare for flavor and output.
Use this in pumpkin pie. A fresh pumpkin pie from fresh pumpkin puree will ruin you for store bought pumpkin pies.
Pumpkin Puree Recipe
Equipment
- Wooden Spoon
- Parchment Paper
Ingredients
- Sugar pumpkins
- Salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Begin by cutting the pumpkins in half and removing the seeds and most of the strings. You can set the seeds aside for roasting.
- Next, sprinkle the pumpkin halves with a pinch of salt, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the pumpkins cut side down in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes or until they become soft and tender.
- Allow the baked pumpkins to cool completely.
- Once cooled, process the pumpkin pulp in a food processor until it reaches a smooth consistency.
- You can store your freshly made pumpkin puree in the refrigerator for up to one week, or for longer preservation, divide it into portions and freeze them in airtight containers. Enjoy the convenience of homemade pumpkin puree in your recipes!