Steamed Pumpkin Purée

It’s October, friends! Much anticipated and dearly loved, this month brings with it so many wonderful traditions and seasonal delights. Like, pumpkin everything. 

Steamed Pumpkin Purée

Today, I’m using a steamed pumpkin method to make homemade pumpkin puree as an alternative to roasting pumpkins. It’s still warm in Arkansas and I really don’t want to crank up the oven and heat up the house. We have, finally, turned off the air and opened the doors and windows to enjoy the cooler fall temps.

Choosing a Pumpkin

Look for smaller pumpkins labeled “sugar” or “pie” pumpkins. These are much better suited pumpkins for making homemade steamed pumpkin puree as they are smoother in texture and less stringy than larger pumpkins used to make jack-o-lanterns. I chose a small orange pie pumpkin that weighed just a couple of pounds and a couple of white pie pumpkins I’d never seen before.

Prepare the Pumpkins

Gather:

• cutting board
• chef’s knife
• vegetable peeler
• pointy spoon
• pan with a steam basket & lid
• food processor or hand blender

Wash and dry the pumpkin and cut in half.  Scrape out the pumpkin seeds (reserve for later!) and the fibers. This process was super easy and I did it easily with a spoon.

Steamed Pumpkin Method

Quarter cut each half. Peel the pumpkin rind and discard. Cut into 2-inch chunks. Place in the steam basket.

Add an inch of water to the pan and bring to a boil. Place the steam basket over the boiling water and cover. Steam for 15 minutes or until pumpkin is fork tender. Note: You may have to add additional hot water to the pan-I did.

Make the Steamed Pumpkin Purée

Cool the steamed pumpkin slightly. Add the pumpkin chunks to the bowl of a food processor and cover. Pulse until smooth.

Makes about two cups. The amount of steamed pumpkin purée will vary depending on the size of the pie pumpkin.

How To Use Steamed Pumpkin Purée

Need some ideas on how to use your purée? Try these delicious recipes!

Easy Killer Pumpkin Bars
Pumpkin Spice Ice Cream
That Pumpkin Stuff

Are you following my Pinterest Pumpkin Board? There are SO MANY great recipes there!

Have you made your own homemade pumpkin purée? Tell me about it the comments below or join in the discussion over on the Desperately Seeking Gina Facebook Page.