Pumpkins

by Swati MhaskeOct 2, 2019

Fall is almost here! Cooling temperatures, falling leaves, we all are getting prepared for embracing the changes in the weather. Now is the time for fall cleanses, consumption of warm and cooked foods, slowing down a bit and focus on self care. Ayurveda provides us with incredible knowledge to incorporate thousands of Herbs and Spices in our daily diet. Ayurveda is a way of life that strives to make healing and healthy life a part of daily routines. HemaVeda brings this way of healthy and happy life for everyone.

Taste and qualities of Pumpkins

Pumpkins have primarily sweet and bitter taste
They are of cold potency
They are grounding in nature
Have the capacity to pacify the pitta and vata dosha when ripe and cooked properly with appropriate spices

Dosha perspective

Pumpkins are Vata and Pitta pacifying

Benefits

Pumpkins are loaded with Vitamin A, C and E
They are a rich source of fiber
Pumpkins are filled with anti oxidant properties
They help build body’s immunity
Pumpkins are also a good skin food – beneficial for overall skin health
They have anti inflammatory properties

Warm pumpkin soup recipe

Ingredients

Ripe pumpkin washed, peeled and chopped in medium size pieces
1/2 cup of yellow moong lentils- washed and soaked for 2-3 hrs
1/2 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger root
1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
Olive oil/ghee for cooking
2 pinches of turmeric
A pinch of asafetida or hingu
Salt to taste
6 cups of water or vegetable broth
Freshly grated coconut ( if available)
Fresh chopped coriander for garnishing

Recipe

Heat the oil/ghee in a pan and sizzle some cumin seeds.
Sauté the ginger for a minute and then add the asafetida and turmeric.
Then add the chopped pumpkin pieces and the soaked moong dal to it.
Sauté for 5-6 mins on a medium low flame.
Then add the warm water and cover it to let it cook until the moong dal and pumpkin is soft. Add the salt to taste.
With a hand blender, blend this soup into fine and smooth texture. You can add water/broth for good soupy consistency.
Garnish the soup with coriander and fresh coconut.
Enjoy this warm and healthy soup!