pumpkin
This Halloween favourite isn't just for the lighting on the doorstep, it's fantastic eaten in American style sweet pies, or used like a squash in soups and stews.
Vegetable
Pumpkin
Grower
Millbank Farm, Killinchy
Family
Cucurbits
(also includes: cucumber, courgette.)
Growing
In season
Planted in May – harvested in October
Best in season
October (on Halloween of course!)
How to grow
They have huge leaves on each plant and need a lot of space to grow.
Eating
Buying and storing tips
Choose pumpkins that feel heavy for their size. Keep in a cool dark place, and store in fridge if sliced.
Recipe Inspiration
In American style sweet pumpkin pie.
In spiced soups.
In tagines and stews.
Health benefits
Rich in Vitamin A, which is important for normal vision and the immune system.