Pumpkin with flavor
Autumn is pumpkin time, and for several weeks now, pumpkins of various sizes, shapes, and colors have been sold directly from the producer on the side of the road. In Germany, the cultivation of edible pumpkins has increased significantly in recent years: in 2021, 99,100 tons of edible pumpkins were harvested in Germany - almost 44 percent more than ten years previously (source: Federal Statistical Office, 2022).
Now is the best opportunity to prepare this tasty regional product on the grill. Whether butternut, nutmeg or the number 1: the Hokkaido. The pumpkin is one of the oldest cultivated plants. Seeds can be dated back to around 10,000 BC. Pumpkins - which are not vegetables, but berries - originally come from Latin America. The Spanish brought them to Europe in the 16th century. Around 800 types of pumpkin are known worldwide - all of them were crossed and bred from five bitter-tasting wild forms.
The five most popular pumpkin varieties
1. Hokkaido: The absolute favorite among pumpkins in Germany. It has a bright orange skin, a nutty-sweet flavor, does not need to be peeled and can be prepared in a variety of ways.
2. Butternut: Known for its buttery, slightly sweet flavor, the pear-shaped fruit is great in soups and curries.
3. Butternut squash:
With its rich orange flesh and slightly spicy taste, it is ideal for braised dishes.
4. Spaghetti squash: Popular for its fibrous flesh, reminiscent of spaghetti, it has a mild, nutty flavor.
5. Baby Bear:
A small, sweet pumpkin, perfect for small households and versatile.
grilled pumpkin
Pumpkin is perfect for grilling and far too tasty to be considered just a side dish. It unfolds its full potential especially on the grill:
1. Intensification of flavour: Grilling enhances the pumpkin's natural flavour and adds a light smoky note.
2. Variety of textures: Depending on the grilling method, you can achieve different textures – from tender to crispy.
3. Health benefits: Pumpkin is rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Grilling preserves most of these nutrients.
4. Versatility: Pumpkin can be prepared on the grill as a main course, as a side dish or even as a dessert.
5. Seasonality and regionality: In pumpkin season it is a perfect regional product for the grill.
Selected recipes with pumpkin can be found in the FIRE&FOOD eDossier. An inspiring collection of pumpkin recipes – from the pen of the FIRE&FOOD grill experts:
