Dorothy FarrarHokkaido-Kurbis
Cucurbita maxima pumpkins weighing up to 1.5 kilograms are commercially available under the name Hokkaido pumpkins . Unlike other types of squash, Hokkaido doesn’t need to have its skin removed before eating, as it softens when cooked and doesn’t have an overpowering taste.
Here’s what you should know about Hokkaido pumpkins
Hokkaido pumpkins originated in Japan. The Hokkaido pumpkin was cultivated there after various types of pumpkins had been imported from other countries since the 16th century. This happened increasingly at the end of the 19th century. Finally, in 1933, the breeder Matsumoto Saichiro succeeded in cultivating the Hokkaido pumpkin, which became known worldwide after the end of World War II.
Hokkaido pumpkins have also been cultivated outside of Japan for several decades. While the pumpkins are initially growing in the greenhouse, they are planted outdoors just before they reach maturity. The Hokkaido pumpkins can be harvested from September to December.
importance to health
100 grams of pumpkin contain only 26 calories. The low-calorie food can be consumed as a healthy and very low-fat side dish as part of a change in diet when losing weight. At the same time, the pumpkin contains a relatively large amount of fiber and thus contributes to satiety in a low-calorie way. A serving of 200 grams of Hokkaido pumpkin corresponds to one BE, which means that diabetics have the opportunity to save some carbohydrates.
The low glycemic index of pumpkins is also beneficial for a healthy, long-lasting diet and is particularly suitable for regulating blood sugar levels. A 2007 study also showed that eating pumpkin has positive effects on the pancreas of type 2 diabetics. The phytosterols contained in the pumpkin seeds contribute to the establishment of healthy cholesterol levels .
The pumpkin oil, which is made from the seeds, is also reputed to have a health-promoting effect. It has been proven that the substances it contains can reduce the symptoms of problems with the urinary tract, bladder or an enlarged prostate.
Ingredients & nutritional values
Similar to carrots, orange-red Hokkaido squash is a good source of vitamin A. This vitamin supports vision. The antioxidants contained in beta-carotene inhibit inflammation in the body and contribute to cell protection. They can reduce the risk of developing cancer and slow down skin aging. The peel in particular contains a lot of vitamin A. Furthermore, Hokkaido contains vitamins B1 , B2 and B6, as well as vitamins C and E. There is also folic acid, phosphorus, magnesium and iron.
intolerances
Pumpkin is one of the low-histamine foods and is therefore suitable for people who suffer from histamine intolerance. However, some cases of cross-allergy to pumpkins in people who are allergic to grass or pollen have been documented.
Shopping and kitchen tips
Pumpkins have also been available in European countries since the 1990s. During the autumn and winter months you can buy it at the market or in the supermarket. Pumpkins are sensitive to frost. They should be stored cool and dry at temperatures between 10 and 15 degrees; then they can be kept for up to a year. Once the squash has been cut, the remainder should be used up as soon as possible, as this will shorten its shelf life.
If a pumpkin is made into a soup, it can be preserved for several weeks by freezing. However, no animal products such as cream should be added to the soup, as these are not suitable for freezing.
When preparing Hokkaido pumpkins, there is no need to remove the skin beforehand. It becomes soft when cooked and can then be eaten – and since it contains the most vitamins, it is particularly healthy. However, consumers should wash the skin thoroughly with warm water before preparing it and be careful to purchase Hokkaido pumpkins from controlled cultivation to protect themselves from pesticides.
Before preparation, the pumpkin should be divided in the middle, after which the seeds can be easily removed with a spoon.
preparation tips
The nutty aroma of the Hokkaido pumpkin and its buttery consistency allow for a variety of preparation options. Pumpkin-based soups with coconut, chilli and ginger or risottos with pumpkin are very tasty. Pumpkin also complements other dishes as a vegetable side dish. The bite-sized pumpkin pieces are marinated in a little olive oil and roasted in the oven. A porridge can also be prepared from the soft-boiled pumpkin in a similar way to mashed potatoes. The roasted pumpkin seeds are served as a snack or used in salads.
Hello and welcome to my Health Guide & Encyclopedia! My name is Dorothy Farrar, and I'm the founder and main author of this platform.
My passion for health and wellness started at a young age when I became interested in the connection between the food we eat and the way we feel. This fascination led me to study nutrition and dietetics in college, where I learned about the importance of a balanced diet and the impact of various nutrients on the body.