October is National Pumpkin Month and we're getting ready to celebrate in a big way! While we recognize that the pumpkin craze is out of control (I couldn't find any candle scent at a retailer last week that did not include White Pumpkin), we are talking about REAL pumpkins. Not that fake pumpkin-y flavoring in lattes or that lovely canned pumpkin that we typically use in pie.
The pumpkin dates back to between 7000 and 5500 BC, cultivated in North America, specifically Mexico. It was also commonly used by Native Americans, then adapted by the pilgrims, which is why it is so closely associated with Thanksgiving.
We took the long route to get to the Pumpkin Pie that we eat today. Originally it was a soup, made by scooping out the seeds inside a pumpkin and pouring milk, honey and spices into the whole pumpkin then roasting it over ashes. The pumpkin would cook, they would mash it all up and have a delicious soup. Sounds pretty delicious to us! As the use of the pumpkin evolved, the mash was used in the pie crusts rather than as a filling. It wasn't until the 19th century that we started seeing recipes for the traditional custard Pumpkin Pies that are a staple in our family holidays to this day.
So which pumpkins make the best pie? Small, sugar pumpkins or sugar pie pumpkins, are readily available. While they make a delicious pie, don't be afraid to try other small pumpkins or squashes for your pies. We suggest trying varieties like Red Kuri Squash, Kabocha Squash or the Hubbard Pumpkin. Get creative and bold. Just don't try using the large, jack-o-lantern pumpkins. They are tough, stringy and can be bitter. Scary face = Scary Pie!
Let's talk about the White Pumpkin, which seems to have soared in popularity this year. The White Pumpkin is a variety of pumpkin with a tender, white skin and a orange flesh. Read: same insides as an orange pumpkin. The
flavor will be similar, but varieties like the Lumina are tender and sweet and perfect for pie. The tender flesh makes them easier to cut, which is definitely a benefit. However, they do not smell any different, so I'm still left perplexed while staring at the White Pumpkin & Sea Salt Candles...
Pumpkin Fun Facts:
A Pumpkin is 90% water
Pumpkins were once recommended as a cure for freckles
Pumpkins are pollinated by Squash Bees
The tradition of carving pumpkins came from the Irish, who carved turnips until they arrived in the US and found an abundance of pumpkins. And Halloween has never been the same!
Pumpkins can be orange, green, white or red
Please enjoy some of our pumpkin recipes for the Fall season! And to learn how to roast and puree pumpkin check out our cooking class schedule for upcoming classes.
Pumpkin Recipes: