Cucurbita Pepo L
The name pumpkin specifically refers to the round, smooth, slightly ribbed, deep yellow to orange pumpkin, which belongs to the species cucurbita pepo. The name pumpkin can also be used to refer to other winter squash varieties so it can sometimes be a confusing.
About 99% of the pumpkin sold are used as Jack-o-lanterns at Halloween. Most o-lanterns belong to a cultivar called ‘Connecticut Field’ and are often too large and stringy to eat. (they range from 20-200 pounds (9-90kg).
The cultivar used for pie filling and cooking is called ‘Sugar Pumpkin’. It’s smaller, sweeter with a close grained flesh.
There are several miniature cultivars of pumpkin that can be eaten fresh.
Pumpkin can be eaten raw and is delicious finely grated and served in combination with grated carrots and beets as a base for salads..
Canned Pumpkin
Commercially canned pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie fillings are usually made from different kinds of winter squash.
Tip: pumpkin should have a rich orange colour and should keep in a cool dry place for about a month.
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