It must be October because pumpkins are everywhere. From the big orange ones that are perfect for carving to the trendy white, turquoise and green varieties, they’re popping up on doorsteps, porches, and in grocery stores. I’m tempted to get the pretty turquoise ones for my beach themed office! But with so many pumpkins to choose from, how do you pick the perfect one?
Whether you’re looking one to create a carving masterpiece or to use as a delicious ingredient for your favorite recipes, I’ve got you covered. Let’s take a look at the world of pumpkins.
Pumpkins for carving are often referred to as “field pumpkins” If you’re planning to carve a pumpkin this Halloween, here are some tips for selecting the right one:
- Shape: Pick one that’s got a nice, symmetrical shape and a flat bottom so it doesn’t wobble around. You also want one that’s easy to cut into. Look for a smooth spot to start your carving.”
- Size: The size of the pumpkin depends on what you want to carve. Bigger pumpkins give you more room to play around, but smaller ones are easier to manage. And you may want to grab an extra one just in case you mess up. Not that I ever have, of course!
- Color: While orange is the classic choice, you can find pumpkins in a variety of colors, including white, green, and blue and turquoise.
- Not good at carving or you don’t want the mess? Grab your sharpies and get creative.
Pumpkin Patch Cooking: Tips for Choosing the Right Pumpkin
Pumpkins aren’t just for carving! They’re also an ingredient in many delicious dishes. Here’s what to look for when selecting a pumpkin for cooking:
- Pie Pumpkins: These smaller, sweeter pumpkins are perfect for pies, soups, and purees. They will usually be labeled as “pie pumpkins”
- Sugar Pumpkins: Similar to pie pumpkins, sugar pumpkins have a sweet flavor and are great for baking.
How To Keep Your Pumpkin Fresh
Once you’ve found your perfect pumpkin, it’s important to keep it fresh. Here are a few tips:
- Store in a cool, dry place: Avoid storing your pumpkin in direct sunlight or near heat sources.
- Clean and dry: After carving or cutting your pumpkin, wipe it down with a damp cloth and dry thoroughly.
- Use a pumpkin preservative: Applying a pumpkin preservative can help prevent mold and rot.
What to Do with Your Used Pumpkin
Don’t toss your used pumpkin in the trash! There are many creative ways to repurpose it:
- Compost it: Pumpkins are a great addition to compost piles.
- Bird feeder: Fill your carved pumpkin with birdseed and hang it outside.
- Pumpkin seed snack: Roast the pumpkin seeds for a delicious and healthy snack.
- Decorative piece: Get creative and turn your used pumpkin into a decorative centerpiece.
Roasting and Seasoning Pumpkin Seeds
- Prep the seeds: Remove the seeds from the pumpkin and rinse them under cold water to remove any pulp.
- Dry the seeds: Spread the seeds out on a paper towel-lined baking sheet and let them air dry for a few hours or overnight.
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Toss with oil and seasoning: In a bowl, toss the dried seeds with a little olive oil and your favorite seasonings.Some popular options include salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cumin.
- Roast: Spread the seasoned seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Cool and enjoy: Let the roasted seeds cool slightly before storing them in an airtight container.
So, whether you’re looking for a spooky Halloween decoration or a tasty ingredient for your next meal, there’s a perfect pumpkin out there waiting for you. Happy pumpkin hunting!
Karen
Grab these products from Amazon to help carve your pumpkin and preserve it.
Buy this deluxe pumpkin carving kit that comes with candles and an EBook
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Use mod podge or any clear acrylic sealer with a matte finish to preserve the pumpkin so that it will last longer. Of course, you will no longer be able to compost or feed to the birds or chickens.
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