Yum, it’s pumpkin season again! But this delicious squash has a big problem: it’s so difficult to peel, we always waste a lot of time and energy, when we don’t end up in the emergency room with a severed finger. Fortunately, we’ve found a much simpler way than attacking your favorite pumpkin with a knife.
the squashWith its soft, sweet flesh, it is a must-have for fall dishes. However, its thick, tough skin can make it difficult to peel and discourage many cooks. Fortunately, there is a quick and easy technique for peeling a pumpkin (or squash, or Walnut, or any other squash) effortlessly: microwave. Heres how to do it.
Prepare the pumpkin
Before starting, wash the squash well to remove any traces of soil or dirt. Then, using a sharp knife, cut off both ends of the pumpkin. This will allow steam to escape during microwave cooking.
Microwave
Place the pumpkin in a microwave-safe dish. Heat it on high heat for 3 to 5 minutes. The exact time depends on the size of the pumpkin and the power of the microwave. The idea is to soften the skin slightly without cooking the meat.
Peeling the pumpkin
Once you take the pumpkin out of the microwave, let it cool for a few minutes to avoid burning yourself. You will notice that the skin becomes softer and easier to remove. Using a vegetable peeler or knife, peel the pumpkin. The skin should come off easily, revealing the tender meat underneath.
Your pumpkin or squash is ready to cook!
Now that the pumpkin is peeled, you can cut it into pieces and use it in your favorite recipes, whether soup, gratin or puree.
Two additional little cooking tips
- If you find that the skin is not tender enough after the first cooking, feel free to return the pumpkin to the microwave for an additional minute.
- Some people choose not to peel pumpkin, because the peel is edible once cooked. However, if you prefer a softer texture to your lotions, exfoliation is recommended.
