Are you tired of store-bought pumpkin puree that lacks the rich, authentic flavor of fresh pumpkin? Get ready to transform an ordinary sugar pumpkin into a silky, luxurious puree that will elevate your baking and cooking to gourmet levels! This foolproof slow cooker method guarantees a smooth, velvety texture that will make your taste buds dance and your kitchen smell like autumn's most delicious promise.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 cups
Ingredients
- 1 medium sugar pumpkin
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Carefully wash the sugar pumpkin thoroughly under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the pumpkin in half from top to bottom. Use a sturdy spoon to scoop out all the seeds and stringy pulp from the interior, setting them aside if you want to roast the seeds later.
- Cut the pumpkin halves into large, roughly equal-sized chunks, leaving the skin intact. This helps the pumpkin maintain its structure during slow cooking.
- Place the pumpkin chunks into the slow cooker, arranging them with the skin side facing down for even cooking.
- Pour the 1/2 cup of water into the bottom of the slow cooker, which will help create steam and prevent the pumpkin from sticking.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Allow the pumpkin to cook slowly for 5-6 hours, or until the flesh becomes extremely tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the pumpkin chunks using tongs and let them cool for 10-15 minutes until safe to handle.
- Gently scoop the soft pumpkin flesh away from the skin using a large spoon. Discard the skin.
- Transfer the cooked pumpkin to a food processor or blender. Pulse and blend until you achieve a smooth, creamy puree. If the mixture seems too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time to reach desired consistency.
- Let the puree cool completely before storing in airtight containers. It can be refrigerated for up to 1 week or frozen for 3-4 months.
Tips
- • Choose sugar pumpkins (also called pie pumpkins) for the best flavor and texture - they're smaller and sweeter than carving pumpkins. • Don't rush the cooking process! Slow cooking allows the pumpkin to become incredibly tender and develop deep, rich flavors. • For extra smoothness, consider straining the puree through a fine-mesh sieve after blending. • If your puree seems watery, let it sit in a colander lined with cheesecloth to drain excess moisture. • Portion and freeze the puree in 1-cup increments for easy future baking and cooking. • Save those pumpkin seeds! Roast them with salt and your favorite spices for a delicious snack.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 49kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 2g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
