If you are interested in using pumpkin for more of your healthy meals this fall, why not
make your own puree? This can save money and is the cleanest option since nothing is
processed and packaged. It is actually a lot simpler than you might think.
Choosing and Prepping the Pumpkin
Before you get to making your pumpkin puree, you have a few preparation steps to
begin with. This starts with selecting the right pumpkin. Keep in mind you are going to
be roasting the pumpkin in the oven after cutting it in half or into quarters, so you need it
to be small enough to fit properly. It is better to go with multiple smaller pumpkins than
just one massive pumpkin, or it is difficult to cut and roast.
After selecting your pumpkin, cut them in half and remove the pulp and seeds from the
center. Keep the seeds in a separate bowl if you intend to roast them later. Remove at
least most of the pulp and seeds from the pumpkin, though don’t worry if there is a little
remaining. This is not as important as when you are planning to carve a pumpkin.
Roasting Your Pumpkin
Once you have cut open your pumpkin and removed the seeds and pulp, you are ready
to roast it. You should have your oven turned onto 350 degrees Fahrenheit for this.
While the oven is preheating, grab a baking sheet and put the pumpkin halves directly
on it. There is no need to use parchment paper or aluminum foil. If you chose a larger
pumpkin, you may need to cut it into quarters and possibly use more than one baking
sheet.
When the oven is preheated, put the pumpkin in the oven and roast for about 30-45
minutes, or until it is tender. You can easily test this with a fork. Your pumpkin flesh
should be a light golden brown color when it is done roasting.
Making the Pumpkin Puree
When the pumpkin is done cooking, remove it from the oven and let it cool. Once cool,
you can start making your puree. Remove the skin from the pumpkin or just scoop out
the flesh. The skin should be easy to remove now that it is fully roasted. Get out your
food processor and start placing large chunks of pumpkin inside. All you need is a little
water and the pumpkin, and it will turn into puree easily. You can also mash it first with a
potato masher before putting it in. Store it in a container with a lid, and place it in the
refrigerator.