The anticipation leading up to Halloween brings immense joy to numerous children and even a few dedicated adults.
The excitement stems from various activities such as trying on costumes, stocking up on an ample supply of candy for trick-or-treaters, and, of course, engaging in the art of pumpkin decorating.
Although carving pumpkins can be a messy endeavor, there is an inherent reward awaiting at the end. It is essential not to discard the seeds but rather roast them!
By doing so, not only do you indulge in a delectable treat, but you also have the opportunity to regulate the amount of oil and salt used.
Furthermore, this process allows you to demonstrate to your children that not all snacks come packaged in crinkly bags; sometimes, they emerge from the depths of a pumpkin.
It is of utmost importance to not overlook the crucial step of cleaning the seeds. Neglecting to properly clean and dry the seeds will result in a lack of desired crispness.
To begin, remove all the innards and seeds from the pumpkin by utilizing a large metal spoon, which tends to be most effective for this task. Subsequently, transfer the entirety of the extracted mess into a suitable bowl for further preparation.
After carefully carving out a pumpkin, the next step in the process is to remove the pumpkin guts from the seeds.
This task may elicit different reactions from children, as some may find the gloppiness of the pumpkin guts to be gross in a repulsive manner, while others may perceive it as gross in a strangely alluring way.
Regardless of their initial response, this step is crucial in preparing the seeds for further use. The slimy texture and the stringy, fibrous strands clinging to the seeds may indeed be off-putting to some, but it is important to remember that these seeds hold immense potential for delicious culinary creations or even future pumpkin growth.
Therefore, despite the initial aversion that some may experience, it is essential to approach this task with a sense of curiosity and determination, as the rewards that lie ahead make it all worthwhile.
To effectively remove the glop from the pumpkin seeds, it is recommended to use your fingers, as it is the most efficient method.
Once the majority of the glop has been removed, transfer the seeds to a sieve or colander. While rinsing the seeds under cold water, carefully pick out and clean each individual seed.
To ensure proper drying, spread the seeds out in a single layer on a dishtowel and allow them to air dry for a minimum of 3 hours, although it is preferable to leave them for 12 hours or longer.
By thoroughly drying the seeds, they will roast instead of steam, resulting in a delightful crunchiness rather than chewiness.
While some recipes suggest hulling the pumpkin seeds by removing the outer shell and using only the smaller kernel inside, known as a pepita, I personally do not have the time nor the patience for such a process.
The shells of the seeds are perfectly edible, although they may not be particularly tender. However, the true essence lies in the roasting and the addition of salt.
Additionally, the shells offer a significant amount of dietary fiber.If you prefer, you can choose to crack open the seeds after roasting and solely consume the more tender inner pepita, similar to how one would eat a sunflower seed.
This alternative method is equally acceptable and provides a variation in texture and taste.
SEASONING ROASTED PUMPKIN SEEDS
In the pursuit of creating a unique and personalized flavor for your pumpkin seeds, you and your young chefs can embark on an exploration of the spice drawer.
Within its confines lie a plethora of spices and herbs that can transform ordinary pumpkin seeds into a delightful house specialty.
Take a moment to unscrew the lids of the cumin and chili powder jars, allowing their enticing aromas to waft towards you, stimulating your senses and guiding your culinary instincts.
Encouraging your children to partake in the sprinkling process not only instills a sense of ownership but also increases the likelihood that they will be intrigued enough to try the roasted seeds themselves.
Furthermore, this experience will prevent them from being taken aback when they encounter these flavors in the turkey chili that awaits them in the coming week.
While cumin and chili powder are certainly excellent choices, there are other seasonings to consider as well.
A tantalizing Ranch blend, a harmonious fusion of basil, oregano, Parmesan, and garlic powder, or even your preferred rub can lend a distinctive twist to your pumpkin seeds.
For those with a sweet tooth, a sweeter version can be achieved by incorporating 1 tablespoon of melted butter, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of white or brown sugar.
To ensure optimal crispness, it is recommended to roast the pumpkin seeds at a temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
However, exercise caution towards the end of the roasting process, as they can transition from a golden hue to an undesirable level of browning in the blink of an eye.
Prior to indulging in their delectable crunch, allow the roasted seeds to cool, as this will enhance their crispness. Fresh out of the oven, they may possess a chewy texture rather than the desired crunchiness.
ROASTED PUMPKIN SEEDS RECIPE
To prepare a delectable snack that serves approximately six people, begin by gathering 2 cups of raw pumpkin seeds.
Ensure that the seeds are thoroughly rinsed and dried before proceeding. In a colander, remove any slimy residue and separate the individual seeds, rinsing them under water.
Allow the seeds to dry completely on a dishtowel for a minimum of three hours. Once dry, transfer the pumpkin seeds to a rimmed baking sheet and drizzle them with a tablespoon of vegetable or canola oil.
For added flavor, consider incorporating a teaspoon of cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, or a combination of these seasonings.
Use your hand or a wooden spoon to evenly coat the seeds with the oil and seasonings. Spread the seeds out in a single layer on the baking sheet and bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F for approximately 20 to 25 minutes, or until they acquire a golden brown hue and emit a delightful aroma.
During the roasting process, occasionally shake the baking sheet to ensure even cooking. Once the seeds are done, allow them to cool before adding salt to taste. These crispy and savory pumpkin seeds are sure to be a hit as a snack for any occasion.
Katie Workman, a renowned food writer, has established herself as a prominent figure in the culinary world.
With a strong passion for family-friendly cooking, she has authored two highly acclaimed cookbooks, namely “Dinner Solved!” and “The Mom 100 Cookbook.”
Through her extensive knowledge and expertise, Workman has become a trusted source for individuals seeking practical and delicious recipes that cater to the needs and tastes of families.
In addition to her cookbooks, she also maintains a captivating blog, hosted at https://themom100.com/, where she shares her culinary insights, tips, and tricks.
Workman’s dedication to her craft is evident in the quality and variety of content she produces, making her a valuable resource for anyone looking to enhance their cooking skills.
For inquiries or collaborations, she can be reached at [email protected].