Pumpkin Skin: How Harmful Pumpkin Skin Really is?
The skin on pumpkin might be just as controversial as the “pineapple on a pizza” global debate. Then there’s coriander, but we won’t get into that now.
The big, orange, spherical things are found everywhere this time of year. Some own special characteristics, while others can be eaten. We rounded up some recipes for cooking with everything but the stem, and came across some ideas for what to do with the ones that get used on Halloween.
We said things because pumpkins are neither here nor there. Pumpkin is a fruit since it contains seeds. However, also from the nutrition perspective, it can be compared to vegetables. It’s the stem, flowers, etc. are considered one of the best vegetables by those who have tried it.
We have heard a lot about the host pumpkin. When talking about pumpkin skin, let me tell you this: It is totally okay to have pumpkin skin. It will not put your health in a problem or risk your life.
Removing pumpkin skin can be rewarding, though. If you feel lazy and don’t remove the pumpkin skin before cooking, then it can leave you with tough skin in the end.
Is Pumpkin Skin Edible?
To answer the question, “can you eat the skin of a pumpkin?” we have classified the skin into three types, as mentioned below:
Can You Eat Pumpkin Skin?
Yes, you can eat pumpkin skin. It is not only safe to consume but also nutritious. Pumpkin skin is rich in fibre and contains various vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy addition to your diet. However, it's important to wash the skin thoroughly to remove any dirt or pesticides. The texture of pumpkin skin can be a bit tough, so it's usually more enjoyable when cooked, which softens it.
Can You Eat Roasted Pumpkin Skin?
Absolutely, roasted pumpkin skin is edible and can be quite tasty. When you roast a pumpkin, the skin becomes softer and takes on a slightly caramelized flavour, making it a delightful part of the dish. To roast pumpkin with the skin on, simply cut the pumpkin into slices or chunks, season as desired, and roast until tender. The skin becomes more palatable and easier to chew when roasted.
Can You Eat Cooked Pumpkin Skin?
Yes, cooked pumpkin skin is edible. When you cook pumpkin, whether it's by boiling, steaming, or baking, the skin softens significantly, making it easier to eat. Cooking the pumpkin with its skin can also add extra nutrients to your meal, as the skin contains fibre, vitamins, and minerals. Just remember to clean the pumpkin skin thoroughly before cooking to ensure it's free from any residues.
Say Hello to Tough Pumpkin!
The skin of most pumpkin and squash varieties is edible; however, the skin of most is too tough and takes too long to soften when cooking, resulting in the flesh being ready well before the skin. As a result, we recommend removing the outer shell before cooking.
Pumpkin also makes really good friends with others in roast veg. Use plenty of good oil along with seasoning till caramelized. Don’t forget to take the skin out if you know it is going to be tough.
Pumpkin has anti-ageing properties
Pumpkin is rich in beta-carotene and Vitamin A. These two substances work together in helping to soften the skin and increase collagen production, preventing signs of ageing such as wrinkles, fine lines, and dark spots.
From an antioxidant perspective, Vitamin C and beta-carotene work together to reverse UVA and UVB damage and free radical damage, two of the central causes of wrinkles and worse yet, skin cancer.
Pumpkin Helps in Weight Loss
Like other vegetables, pumpkins are high in fibre and the skin has even more. Pumpkins are about 90% water, so they’re a low-cal food (not as low as celery, but it’s pretty close).
With their high water content and fibrous skin, pumpkins can leave you feeling fuller for longer, which can even help with weight loss.
Pumpkin Brightens the Skin
Now that you know that Pumpkin will give you bright, smooth, acne-free skin, let’s add a cherry on top by telling you that it also lightens your skin tone. Pumpkin contains fruit enzymes and alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), which speed up cell turnover.
This lightens the skin. Additionally, the molecules of pumpkin are small and can thus penetrate further into the skin when used topically. This is ideal for combating aging skin, dull complexions, and pigmentation.
Now you know how good is pumpkin for you! How about a fresh Mediterranean Chicken meal with pumpkin? Check out our range of healthy pre-packaged meals here.