Deutsch: Kürbis / Indian: Mathanga, Mathangumblam
Pumpkin refers to certain cultivars of squash, most commonly those of Cucurbita pepo, that are round, with smooth, slightly ribbed skin and deep yellow to orange coloration. Some exceptionally large cultivars of squash with similar appearance have also been derived from Cucurbita maxima.
In the food context, pumpkin is a type of winter squash that is commonly used in cooking and baking. It is known for its bright orange flesh and slightly sweet flavor, and is used in a variety of sweet and savory dishes. Here are some examples of how pumpkin is used in cooking:
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Pumpkin Pie: A classic American dessert made with a spiced pumpkin custard filling and a flaky pie crust.
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Roasted Pumpkin: A simple side dish made by roasting pumpkin slices in the oven with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
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Pumpkin Soup: A creamy soup made with pureed pumpkin, chicken or vegetable broth, and cream.
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Pumpkin Risotto: A rich and creamy risotto made with pureed pumpkin, Arborio rice, and Parmesan cheese.
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Pumpkin Bread: A moist and flavorful quick bread made with pumpkin puree, spices, and nuts or raisins.
Similar winter squashes to pumpkin include:
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Butternut Squash: A sweet and nutty squash with a creamy texture that is often used in soups and stews.
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Acorn Squash: A small, green squash with a sweet and slightly nutty flavor. It is often roasted or baked and served as a side dish.
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Kabocha Squash: A Japanese variety of winter squash with a sweet and slightly nutty flavor. It is often used in soups, stews, and curries.
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Delicata Squash: A small, oblong squash with a sweet and nutty flavor that is often roasted or stuffed.
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Spaghetti Squash: A yellow, oblong squash with a stringy flesh that resembles spaghetti when cooked. It is often used as a low-carb alternative to pasta.