The pumpkin is a vegetable that fully represents autumn and for many years it has also become the mascot of the Halloween party. But you have to be careful, because orange Halloween pumpkins and small decorative ones are not edible and therefore not edible either. Let’s find out together what are the many varieties and names of all types of pumpkins, how to clean them optimally to get the most out of them and minimize waste, and finally, which is the best type. But let’s try to steal some additional information first, in order to get a more complete overview.
The pumpkin is harvested from the fields between August and October and is then stored in a dark, cool and above all moisture-free environment. In an environment with these characteristics, pumpkins can last for months, depending on the type and its characteristics. Here’s how to choose the best pumpkin. First of all, the best varieties of pumpkins are the small ones with dry pulp and therefore tastier. Word of advice: try to avoid those that are too big, as they could be rich in water and therefore less tasty.
If we have to choose between two pumpkins of the same type, of the same size, we must choose the one with a greater weight. In addition, it is also necessary to look at the state of the petiole, indeed, if the latter is petiole and dry, (that is to say not green) this means that the pumpkin will be less watery and therefore more tasty. So do not rush to taste the pumpkin, wait until its stalk is dry, you will not regret it. Regarding the preservation method, if the pumpkins are whole, they should be stored in a non-humid environment, away from direct sunlight and at a temperature of at least 12°.
If, on the other hand, the pumpkin is open, it can be stored in the refrigerator divided into pieces or sliced for a maximum of 3/4 days in an airtight container or wrapped in cling film. If, on the other hand, you want to keep it as long as possible, we can keep it in the freezer (freezer) inside the special food bags, thanks to this method the pumpkin can be kept for up to 12 months. The best pumpkin is the Butternut (nut of butter) also called Smooth Violina.
The size is variable, but it is generally bell-shaped, with smooth, thin orange skin. It can be stored for up to a year after harvest. The pulp has a color that tends towards yellow-orange, compact but at the same time tender in the smallest specimens and filamentous in the larger ones. Being the best type, it is perfect for many dishes, including: risotto, lasagna, stuffed with fresh pasta, … and so on, you just need a little imagination.