How and how much to cook a pumpkin to make it soft

How to choose a pumpkin

First of all, pay attention to the appearance. The surface of a good vegetable is flat, smooth and dense, without dents, soft areas, traces of rot, dark spots and other external damage.

The stalk must be dry or dry. If it is cut, it is better to refrain from buying, as the fruit may be unripe. When tapping on a vegetable, a dull sound is heard.

Larger vegetables are believed to have more fibrous flesh, so small to medium-sized fruits are best. At the same time, keep in mind that cut pumpkin will be stored for just a couple of days. If you put it in the freezer, it will remain tasty for up to 10 months.

How to prepare a pumpkin

First, rinse the pumpkin and cut into halves or quarters if large. Use a spoon to remove the seeds from the middle and the fibrous pulp that is covering them. Then peel the hard peel from the fruit. The best way to do this is to use a sharp knife.

Cut the peeled vegetable into approximately equal pieces. Remember: the larger they are, the longer it will take to cook.

If using frozen pumpkin, take it out of the refrigerator right before cooking. Do not leave frozen vegetables at room temperature, otherwise they will be watery and less tasty after cooking.

How much to cook pumpkin

The cooking time depends on the method you choose and will be 10-30 minutes. Moreover, it is approximately the same for fresh and frozen vegetables.

The cooking time may vary depending on the type of pumpkin and the size of the pieces. If they are more than 2–3 centimeters in length, the vegetable will have to be kept on the fire a little longer.

To make sure the pumpkin is ready, just pierce it with a fork or knife. The boiled vegetable becomes quite soft, and the tip fits easily into it.

How to cook pumpkin on the stove

Boil water in a saucepan: you need twice as much liquid as a vegetable. Put the pumpkin in boiling water, season with salt to taste and cook, covered over low heat, for about 20 minutes, until the pieces are tender.

Do not leave the finished vegetable in water, remove it immediately with a slotted spoon, or simply drain the liquid.

How to cook pumpkin in a slow cooker

Place the pieces into the bowl of the machine. Fill with water at room temperature so that it is a couple of centimeters higher than the pumpkin. Salt to your liking. Close the lid and bake for 30 minutes.

How to cook pumpkin in a double boiler

Place the pumpkin slices in a bowl. Season with salt to taste. Pour water into the bowl of the machine and steam the vegetable for 20-25 minutes, until the pieces are tender.

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How to cook pumpkin in the microwave

Place the pieces in a microwave-safe container, such as a glass. Pour water over the pumpkin so that it is about a third covered. Cover and cook for 10 minutes on maximum power.