Pumpkin puree

Delicious pumpkin puree recipe – a simple and healthy choice during the Christmas fasting period

Total time: 30 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4

During fasting, when the desire to enjoy delicious dishes blends with respecting traditions, pumpkin puree becomes the perfect choice. This simple and quick recipe is not only easy to prepare, but it will also bring a touch of flavor to your table. Pumpkin, a staple ingredient in many cuisines, is rich in vitamins and minerals, being an excellent source of beta-carotene, fiber, and antioxidants. Let’s discover together how to transform a few simple ingredients into a refined dish!

Necessary ingredients:
- 700 g pumpkin (preferably pie pumpkin, sweeter and creamier)
- 3 medium potatoes
- 1 carrot
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Nutmeg (a pinch, for an aromatic accent)
- Sweet paprika (for a touch of color and flavor)
- 1 bunch of fresh chopped parsley (for decoration)

Preparing the pumpkin puree:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling the pumpkin, potatoes, and carrot. It is important to choose a well-ripened pumpkin with a vibrant orange color to achieve a tasty and aromatic puree. Cut all the vegetables into uniform cubes (about 2 cm) to ensure even cooking.

2. Boiling the vegetables: Place the chopped vegetables in a pot (or any pot with a lid) and cover them with water. Add salt to taste. Bring the water to a boil and let the vegetables cook for 10 minutes from the moment the pot starts to whistle. This step will help the vegetables become soft and easy to blend.

3. Draining the vegetables: After the vegetables have boiled, drain them, but do not throw away the water! It contains nutrients and can be used to adjust the consistency of the puree.

4. Blending: Using an immersion blender or a mixer, puree the cooked vegetables until you achieve a smooth consistency. Add cooking water gradually if necessary, but be careful not to make it too watery. The pumpkin is usually moist enough.

5. Seasoning: Once you have a creamy texture, add salt, pepper, nutmeg, and sweet paprika. Mix well to combine the flavors. Taste the puree and adjust the seasonings to your liking.

6. Optional – Baking: If you want a slightly crispy crust, you can transfer the puree to a baking dish or individual ramekins and place it in a preheated oven at 200°C for 10-15 minutes. This will enhance the flavors and add an interesting texture.

7. Serving: Once the puree is ready, transfer it to a bowl and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. It is perfect served warm, alongside a green salad dressed with a vinaigrette, which will add a refreshing and crunchy contrast.

Pairing suggestions: Besides being a delicious standalone dish, pumpkin puree can be used as a side for various meals. You can serve it alongside meat, fish, or even as a base for a grain bowl.

Possible variations: If you want to add a touch of creativity, you can experiment with different spices, such as cumin or curry, to give it an exotic note. You can also replace the parsley with other fresh herbs, such as basil or cilantro.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen pumpkin? Yes, frozen pumpkin is an excellent choice and can save time. Make sure it is well-thawed before using.

2. How can I make the puree creamier? If you want a creamier puree, you can add a bit of olive oil or a splash of plant-based milk (such as almond or soy milk) for a richer texture.

3. What are the nutritional benefits of pumpkin puree? This dish is rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and is low in calories, making it ideal for a healthy diet.

With this pumpkin puree, you will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a touch of warmth and comfort to your meals. I encourage you to try this simple fasting recipe, which will surely become a family favorite. Enjoy your meal!