Vegetable of the Month – Pumpkin – October

Discover the versatility and rich history of pumpkins – a nutritious and flavorful ingredient that has been beloved for thousands of years.

Pumpkins originated in Central and South America, where indigenous American tribes like the Aztecs and the Maya cultivated them thousands of years ago. Pumpkins were not only used as food but also for medicinal and ceremonial purposes. Later, they were introduced to Europe and other parts of the world by explorers, leading to their increased popularity worldwide.

One of the most striking features of pumpkins is their diversity of applications. They are beloved in savory dishes such as soups, stews, and curries, as well as in sweet treats like pies, muffins, and cakes. Pumpkin seeds are also edible and are often roasted as a tasty and nutritious snack.

In addition to their versatility, pumpkins are also rich in nutrients. They contain vitamins such as vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E, as well as minerals like potassium and magnesium. Moreover, pumpkins are a good source of fiber, which is beneficial for digestion and overall health.

 

Enjoy the taste and nutritional value of pumpkins by adding them to your favorite dishes. Explore the many possibilities and savor this delicious vegetable that is both nutritious and versatile.

Some tasty recipes

Pumpkin Mash with Pepper Steak

Ingredients for 4 people:

  • 4 steaks
  • 600 g potatoes
  • 1.5 kg butternut pumpkin
  • 2 tbsp sour cream
  • Butter
  • 2 tbsp chives (sliced)

Preparation

  1. Peel the pumpkin and cut it into cubes. Slice the chives. Peel the potatoes.
  2. Steam the pumpkin cubes until tender. Boil the potatoes for 12 to 15 minutes in lightly salted water. Drain.
  3. Fry the steaks in a pan with hot butter until brown on both sides. Let rest for 5 minutes under aluminum foil.
  4. Add the cooked pumpkin to the boiled potatoes and mash them into a puree. Stir in the sour cream and chives, and season with salt and pepper. Serve with the steaks.

Pumpkin Soup with Apples

Ingredients for 4 people:

  • 500 g pumpkin
  • 150 g apples (Granny Smith)
  • 1 onion
  • 1 l vegetable broth
  • 2 cm fresh ginger
  • 2 tbsp cream
  • Pumpkin seed oil
  • Olive oil
  • Pepper & salt

Preparation

  1. Cut the pumpkin into cubes. Peel and chop the apple.
  2. Peel and chop the onion. Sauté it until translucent in olive oil. Add the pumpkin and apple and let them simmer briefly. Pour in the broth. Cover and bring to a boil. Let simmer for 25 minutes.
  3. Puree the soup. Stir in the cream and season with fresh ginger, pepper, and salt. Divide the soup into bowls and garnish with a drizzle of pumpkin seed oil.

 

Both recipes sourced from NjamTV: https://www.libelle-lekker.be/bekijk-recept/1883/stoemp-van-pompoen-met-pepersteak

https://www.libelle-lekker.be/bekijk-recept/6345/pompoensoep-met-appeltjes