As autumn leaves begin to fall and the air turns crisp, one iconic ingredient takes centre stage in kitchens across Britain. But according to acclaimed food writer Diana Henry, we've been underestimating the humble pumpkin for far too long.
From Porch to Plate: The Pumpkin Revolution
"People carve them for Halloween then throw them away," laments Henry, whose latest culinary wisdom is transforming how home cooks approach this versatile squash. "It's such a waste of a magnificent ingredient."
The James Beard Award-winning author and Sunday Telegraph columnist reveals that pumpkin's potential extends far beyond spiced lattes and seasonal decor. With the right techniques, this autumnal staple can become the star of everything from elegant dinners to comforting weeknight meals.
Selecting Your Perfect Pumpkin
Henry's first piece of advice? Choose wisely. Not all pumpkins are created equal when it comes to flavour and texture.
- Crown Prince: Dense, flavoursome flesh with beautiful blue-grey skin
- Butternut Squash: Reliable, sweet, and widely available
- Kabocha: Intensely sweet with a texture similar to sweet potato
"Look for pumpkins that feel heavy for their size," Henry advises. "This indicates moist, dense flesh that will roast beautifully."
Culinary Transformations: Beyond Soup
While pumpkin soup remains a classic, Henry's creative recipes showcase the ingredient's remarkable versatility:
Savoury Sensations
Roasted pumpkin takes on deep, caramelised notes that pair wonderfully with bold flavours. Henry suggests combining it with:
- Spicy chorizo and smoked paprika
- Creamy feta and fresh mint
- Toasted nuts and brown butter
- Warm spices like cumin and coriander
Sweet Surprises
Pumpkin's natural sweetness makes it perfect for desserts beyond the traditional pie. Henry creates elegant puddings where pumpkin plays the leading role, balanced with aromatic spices and contrasting textures.
Preparation Masterclass
Many cooks struggle with pumpkin's tough exterior, but Henry has a game-changing tip: roast it whole.
"Prick the skin a few times and roast the whole pumpkin until tender. The skin peels away easily, and the flesh becomes incredibly soft and flavourful." This method not only saves time and effort but also concentrates the natural sugars, resulting in superior taste.
A Seasonal Celebration
For Henry, cooking with pumpkin represents more than just seasonal eating—it's about embracing the rhythm of the year and finding inspiration in nature's offerings.
"Autumn brings such beautiful produce," she reflects. "Pumpkin, with its glorious colour and comforting flavour, perfectly captures the essence of this season."
With Henry's expert guidance, home cooks can transform this often-overlooked ingredient into spectacular dishes that celebrate the very best of autumn's bounty.
