Best known for pumpkin pie, these flavorful sugar pumpkins extend well beyond dessert and are found in Indian, Thai, and Persian main courses. They pack in the flavor and health benefits.
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Aside from the countless pumpkin pies I’ve tasted which were likely made from canned pumpkin, the first time I had a taste of fresh sugar pumpkin was at a Thai restaurant. It felt so natural to have these sweet, meaty chunks of sugar pumpkin surrounded by a hot curry spice and a little coconut milk. Furthermore, I’ve discovered that these sweet little fibrous treats are found in many savory dishes, notably in Thai, Indian, Mexican, and Persian cuisines.
VARIETIES
Sugar pumpkins are commonly referred to as just “pumpkin”. When you see Pumpkin featured on menus, it is referring to sugar pumpkins. The larger varieties are too fibrous and lack flavor, not something a restaurant would serve.
CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
Indigenous to North America, sugar pumpkins are a staple for Thanksgiving feasts in the U.S. and Canada. They are made into dessert such as pumpkin pie or pumpkin bread. So, Americans symbolize pumpkins with Fall and comfort.
STORAGE AND SUBSTITUTES
Furthermore, sugar pumpkins keep well unrefrigerated on a dry kitchen counter and can be stored this way for several weeks. However, after cooking, refrigerate pumpkin and consume within 5 days. Substitutes are: Acorn squash, Red Kuri Squash, or butternut squash.
HEALTH TALK
Take my advice like you do from a friend, not your doctor as I am not a doctor, dietitian or nutritionist. Moreover, I am just someone with a passion for health and cooking. My hope is to bring you information that will help you live a health-filled life.
Furthermore, Sugar pumpkins are a great source of fiber, as well as the antioxidant beta-carotene. Beta carotene has been linked to a wide range of health benefits, including regulating blood pressure, and reducing the risk of diseases like cancer and diabetes.
HOW TO EAT SUGAR PUMPKINS + RECIPES
Firstly, in order to enjoy you must peel, seed, and cook them. They do well broiled, stewed, or sautéed. With Fall in full swing, these sweet pumpkins are in stock everywhere. I’ve been tinkering with recipes at home and have been delighted with the results. Lastly, try one of my recipes below and let me know what you think in the comments. Thanks for reading!
Fresh Pumpkin Pie
Low-Sugar Pumpkin Spiced Cake
Pumpkin Khoresh
Oatmeal with Pumpkin
Pumpkin Soup
Low-Sugar Pumpkin Spiced Cake
Half coffee cake, half pumpkin pie. This low-sugar pumpkin spice cake makes a great morning coffee accompaniment or dessert for the fall season. Vegetarian.
PUMPKIN AND BEEF KHORESH – PERSIAN STEW
A traditional Persian stew, pumpkin and beef khoresh, is a hearty main course for autumn. This recipe is great for meal prep. It also freezes well, so double the recipe to eat some today and freeze the rest for a quick weeknight meal. Dairy Free, Gluten Free, Whole 30.
Additionally, for more interesting reads on sugar pumpkins and their health benefits, visit:
Bon Appétit, Sugar Pumpkins
Medical News Today, What are the Health Benefits of Pumpkin?
