As Halloween approaches and pumpkins appear on doorsteps across Britain, award-winning food writer Diana Henry is urging cooks to look beyond spooky carvings and embrace this versatile squash in their kitchens year-round.
From Halloween Decoration to Culinary Star
"People think of pumpkin as something you carve rather than cook," observes Henry, whose latest culinary insights reveal the vegetable's extraordinary potential. "But a good pumpkin is a wonderful ingredient that deserves centre stage in your autumn cooking."
Choosing Your Perfect Pumpkin
Henry emphasises that not all pumpkins are created equal. While the large orange varieties perfect for carving lack flavour, smaller culinary pumpkins like Crown Prince, Kabocha, and Butternut Squash offer superior taste and texture.
Her top selection tips include:
- Choose heavy fruits with firm, unblemished skins
- Look for varieties specifically grown for eating
- Smaller pumpkins often deliver more concentrated flavour
Transformative Cooking Techniques
Henry's approach elevates pumpkin from simple purees to sophisticated dishes that showcase its natural sweetness and creamy texture. Roasting emerges as her preferred method, caramelising the natural sugars and intensifying the flavour.
"Roasting pumpkin transforms it," she explains. "That caramelisation brings out a depth of flavour that boiling simply can't achieve."
Global Inspirations for British Kitchens
The food writer draws inspiration from cuisines worldwide, demonstrating pumpkin's incredible versatility:
- Middle Eastern flavours: Pair with warming spices like cumin and coriander
- Italian simplicity: Combine with sage, garlic and Parmesan
- Asian influences: Incorporate coconut milk, ginger and chilli
- Comforting British classics: Creamy soups and hearty pies
Beyond the Bowl: Unexpected Pumpkin Uses
Henry encourages adventurous cooks to explore pumpkin's potential in unexpected dishes:
- Stir roasted pumpkin through risottos for creamy texture
- Add to salads with robust leaves and tangy dressings
- Create stunning pumpkin-based desserts and cakes
- Incorporate into pasta dishes and grain bowls
Waste Not: Making the Most of Your Pumpkin
In typical practical fashion, Henry addresses the common issue of leftover pumpkin. "Don't waste a single piece," she advises. "The seeds can be roasted with spices for a healthy snack, while any leftover cooked pumpkin freezes beautifully for future meals."
Her philosophy champions seasonal, sustainable cooking that celebrates British produce at its peak. "Autumn brings us these magnificent squashes," Henry reflects. "It's our job as cooks to do them justice."
With Diana Henry's guidance, the humble pumpkin transforms from seasonal decoration to culinary superstar, proving its worth in kitchens long after Halloween has passed.
