The pumpkin has been around for over 10,000 years and was one of the first plants ever cultivated by man. It was also a dietary staple for many pre-Columbian civilisations and was first introduced to Europe when the New World was discovered, when Portuguese explorers brought it back in the holds of their ships.
The pumpkin is one of the five most widely cultivated varieties of squash. It is primarily eaten as a vegetable and belongs to the cucurbitaceae family, the best-known members of which are the pumpkin, the winter squash, the Turban squash, the butternut squash and the marrow.
The pumpkin tends to create a great sense of presence in our gardens come the autumn, with each weighing up to 3kg. Its skin is rather difficult to peal but the orangey flesh within is very soft once cut into pieces, whilst its delicate flavour makes it a big hit in the kitchen.
The pumpkin is one of your best friends when it comes to keeping in shape since it contains very few calories (only 20Kcal per 100g). It also contains many nutrients, including vitamins A, B2, B5, C and E, iron, magnesium and potassium, whilst its high fibre content helps keep the bowels healthy.
In addition to soups, mash and gratins, the pumpkin is also perfect for making delicious chutneys to be served with grapes, or in preserves. Have you thought about serving it as an aperitif, for example? Dried and salted pumpkin seeds are the perfect accompaniment to pre-dinner drinks, not to mention a delicious crunchy addition to a green salad!
