How to Cook Pumpkin

Pumpkin can be cooked in different ways. Pumpkin puree is one of the most popular ingredients that is used in the preparation of several mouth watering dishes and deserts. The best part of the pumpkin puree is that it is low-calorie and the unused portions can be stored in the refrigerator for later use. Though there is canned pumpkin available in the market, use of fresh pumpkin definitely adds better flavor and is more nutritious. Here are some instructions that will help you understand how to cook fresh pumpkin.

Instructions

Boiling

Cut the pumpkin into two halves; remove seeds, pulp, and stringy portion.
Peel off the skin and cut small pieces.
Cover the pieces with lightly salted water
Allow it to boil for about 25 minutes or until tender.

Microwave

Cut pumpkin in halves and remove the seeds.
Cut the pumpkin into large pieces so that they fit in microwave. Leave skin on.
Place the chunks in a shallow, microwave-safe dish.
Spray the pumpkin surfaces with cooking spray or add water to the dish to prevent the pumpkin from drying out.
Cover the lid of the container and cook on high temperature for 15 minutes, or until tender

Oven

Cut pumpkin open and remove the seeds.
Place pumpkin pieces with facedown in a baking dish.
Add little of water to the dish so as to keep the pumpkin flesh moist.
Bake at 450º for about 45 to 50 minutes or until you can pierce the skin with a fork.
Scoop flesh out of shell with a spoon.

Above three methods are the simplest ways of preparing pumpkin for the puree. Once the flesh is tender, mash it in a blender or food processor, or put through a food mill. Use can use the prepared puree in any recipe calling for pumpkin purée.