How to Cook and Bake With Pumpkin

In spirit of all things fall, today we will discuss the many ways you can cook and bake with pumpkin. Pumpkin can be used in sweet or savory dishes which makes it a great versatile food! We will also discuss how to find the perfect pumpkin for each dish!

Which pumpkins are best for cooking?

Something you may have not known about cooking and baking with pumpkin is that not all pumpkins are best for eating. According to Christine Gallary from thekitchn.com , many pumpkins you see at a pumpkin patch are actually the worst for cooking. Christine states that you should actually look for sugar pumpkins or pie pumpkins. You can find these in some grocery stores. These ones should be used because they are best for puree and are sweet.

How do you cook a pumpkin?

The best way to cook a pumpkin is easier than you think! According to another article from thekitchn.com , you can cook a pumpkin just like squash. You first start by halving or quartering the pumpkin and removing the seeds. The skin of the pumpkin will peel off after it is cooked. You then simply roast the pumpkin in the oven at 400 degrees for thirty or forty minutes, until the pumpkin is soft. From here, you can cube it up and freeze it, or even puree it for sauces and baking, in a food processor. Don't forget to save the seeds and roast them for a snack!

What recipes can you make with pumpkin?

You can use pumpkins in virtually any baked good by just adding puree. Some examples are pumpkin pie, pumpkin roll, pumpkin cake, pumpkin pancakes and waffles, plus so much more! You can also use pumpkin in savory dishes. Some examples are pasta sauces, soups, or even casseroles!