Getting the Most Out of Pumpkin Season

[dropcap class=”kp-dropcap”]P[/dropcap]umpkins are as abundant in October as apples are in September. Although most pumpkins are used mostly for carving (and being left to rot on the doorstep until Halloween), there is a better way to utilize this wonderful season of gourds. Pumpkin is the flavor of fall, and however basic you consider pumpkin spice-flavored anything, having a couple of solid pumpkin recipes under your belt will make you feel especially festive.

Pumpkin Seeds

These nutty treats can be sprinkled on baked goods or simply eaten on their own.

Instructions

1.     Scrape out seeds from your carving pumpkin. Separate seeds from the stringy interior and rinse in a colander under running water.
2.     For about two cup worth of seeds, toss with 3 tablespoons cannabis-infused olive oil and a teaspoon of salt. Roast at 300 degrees for about 45 minutes, until they are golden.

Pumpkin Muffins

Good for breakfast, brunch, or eaten at your work desk covered in crumbs!

Makes about 12 muffins.

Ingredients

2 cups flour

1 1/2 cups sugar

2 teaspoon baking soda

1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup canned or homemade pumpkin puree

1/2 cup applesauce

2 eggs

1/4 cup cannabis-infused milk

Instructions

1.     Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
2.     Line muffin tin with muffin cups, or use a silicone baking pan.
3.     Mix dry ingredients together, then add wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
4.     Spoon into muffin pan. Add extra ingredients such as chocolate chips, pumpkin seeds or cinnamon sugar before baking for added flair.

Pumpkin Turkey Chili

A toasty way to warm the heart and stomach with vegetables and protein.

Serves 4-6 people.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon cannabis-infused oil

1 clove garlic, minced

1 medium onion, chopped

1 green bell pepper, chopped

1 yellow bell pepper, chopped

1 lb. ground turkey

1 14.5 oz. can diced tomatoes

1 can pumpkin puree

1 1/2 tablespoon chili powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1.     Heat the oil in a large skillet.
2.     Add the fresh vegetables and sauté until just tender. Next, add turkey and cook through.
3.     Drain fat and add in canned ingredients and seasonings. Simmer for 20 minutes on low.
4.     Before serving, top with shredded cheese, sour cream or corn chips.

Pumpkin Oatmeal

A satisfying breakfast with lots of fiber to start your fall days right.

Makes one serving.

Ingredients

1/2 cup old-fashioned oats

1/4 cup pumpkin puree

1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

1/2 tablespoon brown sugar, or more to taste.

Instructions

1.     Prepare oats with one cup water on the stovetop or microwave.
2.     Add pumpkin and rest of ingredients and continue warming until desires temperature and serve.