Thursday, November 11, 2010

Pumpkin:

We love Pumpkin Pie- especially Real Pumpkin Pie!

Making your own pumpkin for pies is easy and frugal.
2 years ago, we grew  several in our garden and I had frozen pumpkin throughout that winter.
This year- only one pumpkin! Grr.
To cook pumpkin, slice it in half and scoop out all the seeds.
The seed cans be rinsed, soaked in salt water, and baked until crisp for a great treat!
Lay pumpkin halves, cut side down in a baking pan. Keep just about a 1/4 inch of water in the bottom as pumpkin bakes so it doesn't dry out.
Bake at 350 until it is easily pierced with a fork. Approx. 45 minutes.
Cool and scoop pumpkin out into blender or food processor.
Try to keep mashing it down to puree it, but don't add any water. It should have enough moisture.
Measure out and freeze.
I got about $14 worth of pureed pumpkin from a pumpkin that cost me a little over a $1!
I will use most of it in pies and some in Real Pumpkin Pecan Cakes or Pumpkin Pancakes.

2 comments:

The Prudent Homemaker said...

Donna,

How much did you pay for your pumpkin? How did you get it for so little? They are pricy here.

I keep trying to grow them but the squash bugs kill them every year.

Donna said...

Brandy,

Quick sale at Aldi. All other stores were high here too. Like $4 and $5 for a medium. ..I hope to come across more on mark down in the next few weeks..but I'm doubtful.

I grew several last year...but only one this year. All that rain set up disease in all my squash varieties.

We need to find another plant or herb that might repel those pests! Once they hit- they are quick!