Jack-O-Lantern Leftovers & What to do With Them

The fall season equals pumpkin season and pumpkin season equals pumpkin carving—quick and simple maths.

The fall season has rolled in, and dare we say, so have all the multicoloured squash and gourds of the winter seasons. 

Pumpkin carving is a tradition that has been around since the 19th century, originating from Irish folklore, the story of ‘Stingy Jack’. Pumpkin carving looked a little bit different back then; the beautiful orange gourds we have all come to know and love so well had not yet been introduced to the UK. Until the classic pumpkin was introduced, people made use of the rutabaga turnip for all carving ventures. How bizarre to think, as they are so very different.

Pumpkin carving is riotous fun, yet the annual problem of our generation is finding a good way to use and dispose of the guts and gourd carnage aftermath. Worry not, for here are five things you can do with the innards of a pumpkin.

Add to the Vegetable Broth Stockpile

As it turns out, pumpkin guts are deeply flavourful and can be used flexibly in any recipe that calls for chicken or vegetable broth. 

Quick veg broth recipe: Sauté pumpkin pulp with other leftover veg, onions, celery, carrot, etc. Add water and let the mixture simmer for about 30minutes to an hour before straining. Et voila! Fresh veg stock.

Harvest the pumpkin seeds for roasting! 

Make the classic roasted seeds everyone knows and loves or try your hand at making its spiced up alternative.

Pumpkin Puree

Home freeze friendly, perfect for making soups, pies, even bread! 

Make a Face Mask

It turns out these ‘guts’ are packin’. Abundant in vitamins, zinc, and antioxidants that will leave you with a glowing complexion. Separate the seeds, mash the guts, and add a little bit of olive oil or honey. Blend until the desired paste-y consistency is achieved. Slather on while listening to your favourite true-crime podcast and boom, spooky self-care.

Have a Food Fight  

The pumpkins guts have already been spilt, and chances are your garden table or kitchen counter are already in a state… Hey. It’s been a tough year; you deserve a food fight. The ammo is already there, and we won’t judge. *wink*

So there you have it five surefire tasty, useful and entertaining ways to put those pumpkin guts to good use. All that’s left to do is eat, drink, and be scary! Happy Halloween!