Pumpkins originated in Central America and are part of the vine crops family called Cucurbitaceae. The name pumpkin originates from "pepon," which is the Greek word for "large melon." Throughout history, pumpkins have been used as an ingredient within pie crusts in early colonial times, and Native Americans used pumpkins to make mats and also used the seeds for food and medicinal purposes. Pumpkins were at one time recommended to remove freckles and to cure snake bites. Today, the most popular use of pumpkins is carving jack-o-lanterns or making pumpkin pie.
Pumpkin Nutrition Facts
Pumpkins are considered to be a fruit and are 90 percent water. Pumpkins are loaded with the antioxidant beta-carotene, which has been shown to help improve immune function and can reduce the risk of diseases such as cancer and heart disease. In addition, pumpkins also contain many vitamins and nutrients including: calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, zinc, selenium, niacin, folate, and vitamins A, C, and E. One cup of pumpkin contains only 50 calories and 3 grams of fiber.
How to Use Pumpkins
In addition to being used to make pumpkin pie, pumpkins have a variety of uses including: breads, butters, soups, muffins, pancakes, waffles, cakes, custards, cookies and can be cut into chunks, peeled and roasted. Also, the seeds of pumpkins can be roasted and are a nutritious snack.
How to Select a Pumpkin for Cooking or Baking
The best selection for a pumpkin to cook or bake is a pie pumpkin or sweet pumpkin. Pie or sweet pumpkins are smaller than the type of pumpkins used to carve jack-o-lanterns and the flesh is sweeter and not as watery. When selecting a pumpkin, look for a stem that is one to two inches. When the stem of a pumpkin is cut too low, the pumpkin will quickly decay or may already be decaying at time of purchase. Pumpkins should be heavy, and pumpkins that are blemished or have soft spots should be avoided. A pound of raw pumpkin usually constitutes one cup finished pumpkin puree.
Other Pumpkin Facts
- The size of pumpkins range from less than a pound to over 1,000 pounds, with the largest pumpkin ever grown weighing 1,689 pounds.
- In 2006 the total U.S. pumpkin production was 1 billion pounds. Top states in pumpkin production are: California, Illinois, Ohio, and Pennsylvania.
- Pumpkins are used for animal feed.
Sources:
University of Illinois Extension
Jennifer Murray - Jennifer Murray is a freelance writer specializing in nutrition, weight loss and fitness.
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