This blog post will teach you how to cut pumpkin, roast it and puree it in easy steps with tips on how to refrigerate and freeze it for later use.
How do you make pumpkin puree at home
In this blog post, I’ll show you how to make pumpkin puree from scratch using sugar pumpkin. This is a no-fail, hands-free, one-ingredient recipe, more importantly, your kitchen will also smell amazing. Pumpkin puree is great for making delicious pies, bread, lattes, and more! Canned pumpkin puree is definitely convenient and easy but it is not always readily available depending on where you live. However, baking pumpkin is available all year round. It might not be in abundance but you can find it in specialty stores The best part is that this fruit puree can be made ahead and stored in the fridge or freezer for future use. You can use this guide for baking all types of squash too. No more excuse for not enjoying pumpkin puree all year round as you can easily make yours at home.
Why you need to make yours
It is easy and only requires 1 ingredient, however, you can add salt to taste if desiredThis recipe is completely hands free and requires no skill or effort which is why it’s perfect for everyone.This cooking method works with all kinds of pumpkin (squash)More importantly, it is preservatives free!
What is pumpkin puree
Pumpkin puree is the end product of a cooked pumpkin. It is then blended in a blender or food processor for a smooth paste. It can be cooked on the stove (boiled or steamed), slow cooker, air fryer, instant pot or roasted in the oven. squash puree can be used in many different recipes, both sweet and savory like soups, muffins, pies, or even smoothies!
Health benefits of pumpkin include
A good source of vitamin A and potassium. High in fiber and beta-carotene. Beta carotene has antioxidant properties which help the body fight disease more effectively. It is very low in calories, making it perfect for anyone looking to lose weight or even those who want an energy boost without having to eat too much! Other benefits include; it can help maintain healthy vision, boost the immune system, keep bones strong and provide relief from arthritis.
What you will need to make your homemade puree
Sugar pumpkin or pie pumpkin: this variety is sweeter, creamier, and more flavourful than jack O lantern which is best used for carving salt (this is optional)
How to cut pumpkin
Cutting and removing the seeds from a whole pumpkin can be a tasking job, but it is actually easy and straightforward. All you need is a sharp knife and a chopping board and a sturdy surface. The simplest and easiest approach to cutting pumpkin for puree is to cut it into two halves. Wash and pat the pumpkin dry with a kitchen towel or kitchen paper towel. This step is important to avoid contaminating the flesh of the squash with debris. Place the pumpkin on the chopping board stem side up, make sure that the squash is sitting well on the chopping board. Insert the knife about 10cm away from the stem and Pushing firmly, push the knife down through the skin of the pumpkin into the flesh then make a complete cut around to split it into two halves. Scoop out the seed and fibers from the pumpkin halves with a spoon or ice cream scoop. Save the pumpkin seed for later and discard the fiber.
How to roast pumpkin for puree
Preheat the oven at 200C/200F and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper Place the pumpkin cut side down on the baking sheet Bake in the oven for 40 to 50 minutes or until the pumpkin is fork-tender. If baking a smaller-sized squash, then adjust the time accordingly, you can start checking for doneness from 30 minutes. Remove it from the oven and leave it to slightly cool before making it into a puree.
How to make puree pumpkin
You can use a handheld blender, high-power blender, or a food processor for this task. Alternatively, use a potato ricer or simply whisk until smooth. I used a food processor for a faster and better outcome. While the roasted pumpkin is still warm and safe to touch, scoop out the flesh into the bowl of the food processor. Working in batches, process the pumpkin until smooth. Use as desired or transfer to a clean and dry jar and keep in the fridge for later use. PS: Consider that different variety of squash has various amounts of moisture in them. If the variety of squash you use has a bit more moisture than the one pictured, simply drain in a cheesecloth over a strainer for the excess moisture to escape. Watch how to make it
Storage instructions
In the fridge: portion the puree in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 1 week. Freezer: pumpkin puree can be frozen for up to 6 months or even longer. To get the best of it, store it apportioned in containers or large ice cube trays or Ziploc freezer bag. To defrost: you can defrost the frozen puree in the fridge overnight and use it in your recipes accordingly.
How to use pumpkin puree in recipes
Instant pot mac and cheese (Stir in a pumpkin puree in your mac and cheese) Pumpkin soup (Swap butternut squash to pumpkin) Healthy pumpkin bread Creamy pumpkin pasta If you made this quick and easy pumpkin recipe, don’t forget to leave me feedback and rate it 5 stars. Tag me @thedinnerbite on Instagram and save away to your Pinterest. Please subscribe to the blog if you haven’t for free new recipes in your inbox
