Pumpkin Delight
Cool, crisp fall air signals the return of autumn. Celebrate the season by exploring the wonders of pumpkins. The Hudson Valley has an abundance of pick-your-own pumpkin patches, why not discover the wonders of pumpkins with your children.
Using a large, pre-carved pumpkin, invite children to feel both inside and outside the pumpkin, comparing the texture of each. Children may also smell the pumpkin and look for variations in the orange color. (Note: to avoid injuries, have an adult pre-carve the pumpkins prior to activity)
¨ For the best buy, choose pumpkins with bright orange skins without spots.
¨ To prepare pumpkins, wash skin, cut into small pieces and remove seeds before cooking. Boil small pieces for 10-20 minutes.
¨ To keep fresh, store in a cool dry place for up to 1 month.
¨ Eat pumpkin for healthy eyes and skin.
¨ Chop cooked pumpkin, lightly butter and serve hot.
¨ Use pureed pumpkin for a soup base.
¨ Scoop seeds from pumpkin. Salt them lightly and bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes.
Pumpkin Activity
Children can decorate a small pumpkin to take home. Adults can help the children draw designs (i.e.,eyes, ears, nose, mouth, creative shapes, or traditional jack-o-lantern) and decorate with stickers, glue, paint, etc. Display a decorated pumpkin for inspiration. During the activity, you can talk about nutritional content and how to cook with canned pumpkin. The activity and discussion should emphasize the five senses: taste foods made with pumpkin, smell its scent, feel the squishy pulp and seeds, bang on the pumpkin like a drum to hear the sound it makes.
Pumpkin Pancakes
2 eggs, 2 ½ cups low-fat milk, 1 cup canned pumpkin, 3 cups biscuit mix, 1 tsp. cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice, vegetable oil cooking spray.
In large bowl, beat eggs slightly and mix with milk. Stir in pumpkin. Add dry biscuit mix. Mix well.
Spray large skillet with cooking spray and heat over medium heat. (The skillet is hot enough when a drop of water sizzles on top.) Cook pancakes on both sides until golden brown.
Serves 8 (3 small pancakes)
