Harvest Festival

Stuffed pumpkin with autumn vegetables - A harvest celebration

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

This stuffed pumpkin recipe is not just a delicious dish, but also a true celebration of the harvest, bringing together the flavors of autumn in a unique way. It is an easy-to-make recipe that will impress both family and friends. Additionally, it will help you reconnect with nature and the little joys of life, such as cooking together with loved ones.

Ingredients needed:
- 1 pumpkin weighing about 1 kg, preferably round-shaped
- 1 small young zucchini
- 1 small eggplant
- 1 bell pepper, any color
- 1 small carrot, grated or diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 cloves of garlic, crushed
- 1 handful of lentils (preferably green or yellow)
- A little olive oil or sunflower oil for sautéing the vegetables
- Vegetable broth (about 500 ml)
- Fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or basil, to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Step by step: Cooking the stuffed pumpkin

Step 1: Preparing the pumpkin
Start by choosing a healthy pumpkin with a smooth skin and no blemishes. Carefully cut off the top of the pumpkin to create a lid. Use a spoon or knife to scoop out the seeds and flesh from the inside, being careful not to hurt yourself. This pumpkin will become your edible bowl, so make sure not to break it. It's a perfect time to bring your kids into the kitchen to help you with this step - it will turn cooking into a fun experience!

Step 2: Preparing the filling
In a large pan, add a little oil and sauté the onion and garlic over medium heat until they become translucent and fragrant. Then add the diced carrot, eggplant, and zucchini. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables become slightly tender.

Step 3: Boiling the vegetables
Add the diced bell pepper and washed lentils to the pan. Pour in the vegetable broth and let it simmer on low heat, covered. You want the lentils to be fully cooked and the vegetables to become soft. This will take about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally and add water if necessary.

Step 4: Seasoning
Once the vegetables and lentils are cooked, season with salt, pepper, and chopped fresh herbs. Here you can also add a splash of lemon juice to enhance the flavors. Don't forget to taste the filling - this is the key to achieving a delicious dish!

Step 5: Filling the pumpkin
Using a spoon, fill the prepared pumpkin with the vegetable mixture. Place the lid on top and put the pumpkin in a baking dish lined with parchment paper. You can add a little water to the dish to prevent burning. Bake the pumpkin in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 20 minutes or until the pumpkin becomes tender.

Step 6: Serving
Serve the stuffed pumpkin warm, sliced, directly from its edible "bowl". You can garnish it with a few fresh herb leaves for a more appealing look. This dish can be accompanied by a fresh green salad or a side of rice to complete the meal.

My personal tip:
If you want to add a touch of originality, you can include feta cheese or mozzarella in the filling before baking the pumpkin. This will create a creamy texture and a savory flavor.

Nutritional information:
This dish is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it ideal for a healthy diet. The pumpkin is an excellent source of beta-carotene, and the vegetables provide a consistent supply of nutrients. A serving has approximately 220-250 calories.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other vegetables?
Of course! This recipe is very versatile. You can add spinach, mushrooms, or even chickpeas for a protein-packed version.

2. Is it a vegan recipe?
Yes, this stuffed pumpkin is perfect for vegans as it contains no animal-derived ingredients.

3. How can I store the stuffed pumpkin?
The stuffed pumpkin can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.

4. What can I pair this dish with?
It pairs wonderfully with a dry white wine or even with a fragrant herbal tea. Additionally, a raw vegetable salad will perfectly complement the meal.

This stuffed pumpkin recipe is not just a delicious dish, but also a cooking experience that will bring you joy and satisfaction. So don't hesitate to get started and enjoy the flavors of autumn! Enjoy!