As a mom who loves to combine family time with seasonal traditions, I love carving pumpkins every year with my son. This year was the first year that he was able to help and let me know which shapes he wanted me to carve (he asked me to carve a bat and a fire truck… so I probably won’t ask again next year). The problem with carving a pumpkin is that the insides, or guts, often can go to waste. Instead of tossing the insides of your pumpkin, let’s explore some creative ways to put those pumpkin guts to good use. Not only will you reduce waste, but you’ll also discover fun and tasty activities for you and your little ones. In this article, I’ll share five creative ways to use pumpkin guts after you’ve carved it into a spooky jack-o-lantern.
1. Roast Pumpkin Seeds for a Delicious Snack
While I think this is the most common thing to do, that doesn’t make it any less delicious. In the past, I have tried various recipes that I found online, but they never seemed to come out how I imagined them. This year, I finally nailed it. The secret – sprinkle some cayenne and Chinese 5 Spice and make sure to NOT take them out of the oven before they are ready! After scooping out the seeds from your pumpkin, rinse them thoroughly to remove any clinging pumpkin flesh. Then, toss them in a mixture of olive oil, cayenne, Chinese 5 Spice, and salt. Roast them in the oven at 180°C for about 30-45 minutes, stirring often. You’ll have a tasty, crunchy snack that’s perfect for on-the-go adventures.
2. Make Some Tasty Pumpkin Recipes
Don’t let the pumpkin flesh go to waste. Turn it into homemade pumpkin puree, which can be used in various recipes. Simply peel the flesh, chop it into cubes, and boil or roast until soft. Then, blend it into a smooth puree. This pumpkin puree is used in millions of recipes. Here are some of my favourites:
- Pumpkin Gnocchi (just sub out the squash for pumpkin)
- Pumpkin Soup from the RecipeTin Eats
- The Squash & Pumpkin Cookbook – By Heather Thomas
3. Craft Pumpkin Guts Bird Feeders
This one is super easy, especially if you live in a suburb or rural area. After carving your jack-o’-lantern, create a pumpkin bird feeder. Simply pack the pumpkin guts into a clean, empty toilet paper roll, roll it in birdseed, and hang it outside. Your little ones can enjoy watching the birds feast on this DIY feeder, making it an educational and eco-friendly activity – plus you’re helping those birds get ready for winter!
4. Create a DIY Pumpkin Face Mask
I personally have not tried this, simply because I just don’t have the time – due to running after a 3-year-old. However, if you get a night off, I recommend giving it a try! Turn your pumpkin guts into a natural beauty treatment. Pumpkin is packed with skin-loving vitamins and enzymes. Combine the pumpkin flesh with some honey and a touch of yoghurt to create a nourishing face mask. Apply it to your skin for a refreshing spa-like experience. It’s a creative and cost-effective way to pamper yourself during your travels.
5. Fertilise Your Garden
If you are a big travelling family like we are, you often don’t have space or time for a garden. If you’re lucky enough to have a garden, put those pumpkin guts to work in a more practical way. The organic matter in the pumpkin can be composted or buried directly in your garden. The decomposing pumpkin will enrich your soil, providing essential nutrients for your plants. Plus, it’s a sustainable way to dispose of the pumpkin remains. (This is the first year I will be able to do this!)
When it comes to carving pumpkins with your kids, it can be fun and eco-friendly at the same time. These creative ideas ensure that no part of your pumpkin goes to waste, from roasted pumpkin seeds to pumpkin masks and eco-friendly gardening practices. This Halloween, embrace the season and get creative with your pumpkin guts. Share in the comments below some creative ways to use pumpkin guts after carving them that you love.
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