How to cut pumpkin for cooking
Whole pumpkins can be a tough (and unwieldy) nut to crack! Learn the easiest way to cut a pumpkin with myfoodbook Cooking School. We’ll show you how to cut pumpkin into wedges and cubes, and how to take off the skin so it's ready to cook. Plus get lots of pumpkin recipes like pumpkin lasagne, risotto, pies and more.
How to cut a whole pumpkin
Method
- On a large cutting board, place the tip of a large knife in the centre of your pumpkin just next to the stem.
- Push the tip of the knife in, and cut clean lines straight down. Slice the pumpkin into quarters.
- Remove the seeds with a spoon. See tips for ways to use the seeds.
- For wedges, place each quarter of pumpkin down flat and slice.
- Remove skin by slicing it off, discard in compost. Now your pumpkin is ready to cook, or cut it into a smaller dice.
This way of cutting a pumpkin is great for Kent, Jarrahdale, Queensland blue and other wide, flat pumpkins. If you're cutting a butternut pumpkin, first lay it on its side and slice it in half. Then place each half cut-side down and follow the same steps as above.
Always use a large, sharp knife. This will slice easily through the tough skin, making it both safer and easier for you. A small knife can be more dangerous as it won’t give you enough leverage and can slip easily.
Always ensure your pumpkin is stable on your chopping board before slicing.
You can roast the seeds and enjoy them whole as a crunchy snack. Rinse in cold water to remove the stringy pulp, dry them and toss with olive oil, salt and paprika (or your favourite spices). Roast in an oven at 200°C for 5-10 minutes or until lightly brown. Let cool and enjoy.
How to store cut pumpkin
Store cut pumpkin in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze pumpkin, but it will become soft once thawed so is best for soups, pies or purees. Whole pumpkins can be stored for a lot longer, find out how to store whole pumpkins.
Pumpkin recipes
Now you know how to prepare it, it's time to get cooking! From flavoursome dinners to delectable desserts, pumpkin's versatility is clear in these recipes. See some below or click here for more pumpkin dinner recipes.
GET THE RECIPE: Pumpkin and Lentil Rogan Josh Curry by Passage to India
If you're not confident cutting pumpkin, this recipe is a good place to start because you only have to make one cut through the centre. Make sure to lie your pumpkin on its side so it's more stable.
GET THE RECIPE: Roasted Pumpkin and Spinach Lasagne by Australian Eggs
GET THE RECIPE: Roast Pumpkin and Spinach Risotto by Perfect Italiano
