Pumpkin

Cucurbita moschata / Cucurbita maxima   |   Kaddu | Mathanga | Poosanikai

Pumpkin is a large, orange-fleshed gourd with a sweet, earthy flavour and smooth, dense texture. Celebrated across cultures — from South Asian curries to Western pies — it is both a versatile cooking ingredient and a nutritional powerhouse. The seeds are equally prized for their nutritional value.

Health Benefits

  • Exceptional source of beta-carotene — promotes healthy vision and immune function
  • Very high in vitamin A — one of the richest vegetable sources
  • High in fibre and antioxidants — supports heart and digestive health
  • Contains vitamins C, E, and B2, plus iron and potassium
  • Pumpkin seeds are rich in zinc, magnesium, and healthy fats

Nutrition: Calories: 26 kcal | Vitamin A: very high | Fibre: 0.5g | Carbs: 6.5g (per 100g)

Culinary Uses: Used in pumpkin curry (mathanga erissery), sambar, soups, and stews. Roasted as a side dish. Used in pumpkin pie, bread, and cakes in Western cuisine. Seeds are roasted as a snack.

Description

Pumpkin is a large, orange-fleshed gourd with a sweet, earthy flavour and smooth, dense texture. Celebrated across cultures — from South Asian curries to Western pies — it is both a versatile cooking ingredient and a nutritional powerhouse. The seeds are equally prized for their nutritional value.