Carving pumpkins around Halloween is a tradition for many, but in most cases, the gooey guts end up in the compost bin almost immediately. However, this year things are going to change, especially in our house.
It is totally wasteful to be slicing and dicing a Halloween pumpkin for a show and tell on social media or for your front porch if you're not going to use what's inside it too, so if you're looking for some creative ways to use jack-o-lanterns leftovers look no further. Here are some top tips to make the most out of your pumpkin guts this year.
Roasted pumpkin seeds
It's the most obvious, right? Roasted pumpkin seeds are a healthy snack option. You can eat them on their own, add them to a homemade trail mix or better yet, use them to make a loaf of pumpkin bread or delicious muffins.
Pumpkin puree
The options are endless when it comes to making and baking with pumpkins, but if you have a baby, this one is perfect for you. Separate the guts from the seeds, roast it, then blend the guts until it's smooth. It can be eaten on its own or mixed with other fruits, vegetables, yoghurt and even cooked rice.
Vegetable stock
Making your own stock is a great way of reducing food waste. Store any guts and seeds alongside any other veggie food scraps such as onion peel and carrot tops in the freezer. When you have enough leftovers waiting to be used up, boil them up, strain the liquid, and use the stock for stews, soups and more.
Pumpkin juice
Don't knock it 'til you try it, but pumpkin is so tasty when added to pasta sauce and smoothies. Simply loosen the guts with some boiling water and use a fork to mash it up until you get a bright orange liquid. Store in an airtight container in the fridge until you are ready to use it.
Feed backyard birds
Seeds, in general, are highly nutritious for birds, especially during the colder autumn and winter months. Let the seeds dry out completely before placing them on a flat surface or in a shallow bowl, or mix them with any existing bird food in your garden. Alternatively, you could make your own bird feeder.
Body scrub
That's right; you can slough away dead skin using pumpkin guts. To make a natural DIY pumpkin body scrub rich with nutrients, you will need brown sugar and sweet almond oil. Simply bake the whole pumpkin or just the pumpkin guts until soft, then mix in all the ingredients until you get the desired consistency, and scrub away.
