Pumpkin Seeds with a Purpose

You’ve painstakingly carved your jack-o-lanterns with exquisite detail. They are true works of Halloween art you can display for neighbors and friends in the Lowcountry to admire and enjoy. Now, what do you do with that slimy, slippery pile of pumpkin guts? Don’t just throw them away! Here are a few ideas on how to give those discarded pumpkin seeds a purpose.

Compost The easiest idea, requiring the least amount of effort, is to compost the seeds. To prevent the seeds from germinating in the compost pile boil the seeds to neutralize them. This will ensure they won’t start to grow. Simple and eco-friendly solution.

Plant If you want to grow your own pumpkins for next Halloween’s crew of jacks, you can keep the seeds to plant later. It’s essential that the seeds be clean and dry for any long-term storage.

Soak the seeds in warm water to help remove the icky, sticky pulp, drain them and lay the seeds out on paper towels to dry for 24-48 hours. Once the seeds are completely dry, wrap them in a paper towel and seal them in a plastic bag (or an airtight jar). You’ll want to store them in a cool, well-ventilated place over the winter (a refrigerator works just fine) and plant them in April or May for harvest in late September (it takes 90-120 days of growing time). If you store the seeds in your fridge, cold stratification (imitation winter) occurs. This breaks down the seed coat and permits water to enter the seed, which will then germinate when planted.

Roast A seasonal favorite (and great family tradition) is to roast the pumpkin seeds. There is an abundance of recipes on the internet, visit https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/13768/roasted-pumpkin-seeds/ for some ideas. You can make them salty, spicy, sweet, just natural or experiment with some combinations of your own. It’s recommended that you remove the pesky pulp (rinsing in water makes it easier) and boil the seeds first. Boiling allows the seeds to cook more evenly.

Brittle If you are looking for a sweet solution, try pumpkin seed brittle. The sweetness can be achieved with brown sugar, honey or maple syrup. For a traditional autumn taste, add cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger. If you want a little bite, a dash of cayenne fits the bill. Try one of these recipes https://www.foodnetwork.com/search/pumpkin-seed-brittle-. Try serving it over ice cream. Yum!

Butter If you’re a fan of nut butters, apple butter and other assorted butters, why not try pumpkin seed butter? It’s nutritious, nut free, gluten free and versatile. Don’t just spread it on toast! Use it in muffins, smoothies, oatmeal, pancakes and anything else that comes to mind. Visit https://www.foodfaithfitness.com/pumpkin-seed-butter/ for a basic recipe. Try adding vanilla, cinnamon or maple syrup. Enjoy!

Don’t let those pumpkin seeds go to waste. Pumpkin seeds have a purpose!

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