Pumpkin is very healthy being low in calories, packed with fiber, moderate levels of protein and good dollops of Vitamins A and C. However most people only consider baked pumpkin.
But cooking pumpkin and then pureeing it using a blender or food processor opens up a kaleidoscope of other possibilities and taste sensations.
You can make Pumpkin Puree by:
► Baking peel pumpkin pieces in a preheat oven at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C ) for about 90 minutes (until the pumpkin is soft). You can reduce the moisture after blending by draining through a fine sieve or cloth
► Boiling pieces of peeled pumpkin in a large pot of lightly salted water for about 25-30 minutes or until the flesh is tender when tested with a knife.
► Steaming pieces of peeled pumpkin in a steamer or using a colander suspended over a pot of boiling water.
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup cooked white beans
1/4 teaspoon mixed spice (or your option)
1/4 cup dates (soften in hot water for a few minutes)
1 banana, crushed with a fork
1/2 cup pumpkin puree
1 cup vanilla almond milk (or soy or dairy)
1 cup of ice cubes
Blend all ingredients on a high setting for 45-70 seconds, until smooth.
1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon
2 tablespoons pecans, finely chopped
1/4 cup pumpkin puree
1/2 cup low-fat plain, high quality Greek yogurt
pinch of salt
Freshly ground pepper to taste
Drizzle of maple syrup or molasses
Layer the ingredients with the yogurt mixed in with the pumpkin puree at the bottom. It has a very savory taste.
1/2 cup pumpkin puree
1 1/2 cups vanilla soy milk
2 teaspoons instant espresso powder or 1/4 cup freshly brewed coffee
1/4 teaspoon mixed spice, or the spices you prefer
Add half the soy milk, pumpkin puree, the spices and the coffee to a blender and pulse on medium until smooth. Add ice to two serving glasses ice and pour in the latte mixture. Top with the remaining vanilla soy milk and serve.
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Spicy, Savory, Easy Pumpkin Pie with Molasses, Almond Flour, Yogurt