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What is Jamaican Pumpkin Called?

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jamaican_pumpkin.jpgWhat is Jamaican Pumpkin Called?

By Venesha Johnson | Associate Writer

One of the things that makes Jamaican cuisine so unique, is how well we utilize our natural ingredients; simple ingredients we pick up at the market or even our backyards. One of those star ingredients is our Pumpkin, which if you are not Jamaican (or familiar with Jamaican or Caribbean cuisine) may take you a back, because it is quite different from your typical American pumpkin. 

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First things first, let's talk about what sets the Jamaican pumpkin apart from its American cousin. While both varieties belong to the gourd family, the Jamaican pumpkin, scientifically known as Cucurbita moschata but is sometimes referred to as Caribbean Pumpkin, boasts a slightly sweeter and nuttier flavour compared to the American pumpkin. It's also known for its smooth texture, making it perfect for a wide array of culinary delights. There are also different varieties, and unless you are an expert at pumpkins, you will have to actually cut into one to discover what you are getting. Some are much sweeter, some are a bit pale or yellow in colour while others are a deep orange, even the texture may differ. 

Now, let's get down to the good stuff – the health benefits and nutritional value of this delicious fruit. Jamaican pumpkins are packed with essential vitamins and minerals. They're a fantastic source of vitamin A, which is excellent for eye health and boosts your immune system. Plus, they're rich in fibre, aiding digestion and keeping you feeling full and satisfied.

But that's not all – Jamaican pumpkins are also low in calories and fat, making them a guilt-free addition to your diet. They contain significant amounts of potassium, an essential mineral that helps regulate blood pressure and promotes heart health. So, not only are they delicious, but they're also incredibly good for you!

There is no way we can talk about the Jamaican Pumpkin without also touching on how versatile it is. One of the most popular ways we do use this is in our quite popular pumpkin soup. A steaming bowl of hearty pumpkin soup is brimming with the flavours of thyme, scallion, and Scotch bonnet pepper – it's comfort food at its best!

In addition to soups, we also use it in our rice dishes, adding a delightful sweetness and vibrant colour. It also stars in hearty stews, where its creamy texture enhances the overall richness of the dish. In Ital cuisine – a style of cooking rooted in our Rastafarian beliefs – Jamaican pumpkin plays a starring role in various vegan and vegetarian dishes, bringing both flavour and nutrition to the table.

And let's not forget about punches! Jamaican pumpkin punch is a popular beverage enjoyed across the island. It combines blended pumpkin, condensed milk, nutmeg, cinnamon, and a hint of vanilla to create a creamy, dreamy concoction that's both refreshing and indulgent.

As a matter of fact, before you go here is a simple yet sensational recipe for Jamaican Pumpkin punch that is to die for!!! While this is the virgin recipe, feel free to add as much Jamaican rum as you like, for an extra kick. Consider this as just your base recipe as, typically we add a combination variety of ingredients including oats, carrots, Dragon Stout or Supligen.

Jamaican Pumpkin Punch

INGREDIENTS

  • 2 cups Jamaican pumpkin, peeled, seeded, and chopped
  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
  • 4 cups cold water
  • Ice cubes (optional)
  • Ground cinnamon and nutmeg for garnish


PROCEDURE

  1. Cook the Pumpkin: Boil the chopped Jamaican pumpkin in water until tender. Drain and let it cool to room temperature.
  2. Blend to Smooth Perfection: In a blender, combine the cooked pumpkin, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and freshly grated nutmeg.
  3. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. You should have a velvety, orange-hued liquid that's simply irresistible.
  4. Chill and Prepare: Transfer the blended mixture to a large pitcher.
  5. Stir in the cold water, mixing well to ensure everything is nicely incorporated.
  6. Refrigerate the punch for at least an hour to enhance the flavours.
  7. Serve with Style: When you're ready to serve, fill glasses with the chilled pumpkin punch.
  8. If desired, add a few ice cubes to each glass for that extra refreshing kick.
  9. Garnish and Enjoy: Sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon and nutmeg on top of each glass for a decorative touch.

So, whether you prefer savoring a bowl of pumpkin soup on a rainy day or indulging in a glass of pumpkin punch, either way, I guarantee that after one try you will be looking for ways to add our pumpkin to many more of your dishes. Oh, on that note, remember you can also grab a copy of our ebook, for even more delicious Jamaican recipes. Happy cooking!

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References & Sources For What is Jamaican Pumpkin Called?

  1. CSA Week 12, Jamaican Pumpkin is a Local Staple. (n.d.). Little River Cooperative. https://littlerivercooperative.com/blogs/news/csa-week-12-jamaican-pumpkin-is-a-local-staple#:~:text=Jamaican%20pumpkin%20also%20known%20as,and%20all%20over%20the%20Caribbean.

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