The UK is set to bin a staggering 18,000 tonnes of edible pumpkin this Halloween – that’s the same weight as 1,500 double-decker buses!
In a bid to combat the waste of the humble pumpkin, environmental campaigners Hubbub started a #PumpkinRescue campaign in 2014. Their statistics showed that 58% of consumers buy pumpkins to hollow out and carve, but only a third actually use the leftover innards.
The now-nationwide campaign encourages those who will be carving a lantern to utilise the other parts of the seasonal fruit. From baking into pies to blitzing into lattes, there’s plenty you can do this autumn to join the #PumpkinRescue to save yours from going to waste.
Toasting
Whether you’re eating or just carving it, the first thing to do with your pumpkin is scoop out the seeds.
To roast and eat, rinse the seeds, boil for ten minutes, then dry. Coat them in a little oil, scatter them onto a baking tray and bake them on a low heat (around 120c) for 40 minutes or so.
The seeds are high in protein, and can be used sprinkled over salads and vegetables or served with nuts as a snack.
Cooking
Without a doubt the most versatile part of the pumpkin, the flesh can be scooped out and used as part of countless meals. Grate it into cakes, blitz into soup or bake into a classic pumpkin pie. There’s hundreds of recipes online that make use of the stuff.
Lattes
If you’ve got a pumpkin at home, you don’t have to go all the way to your local coffee shop for your pumpkin spiced latte fix. Make the most of the flesh by making a puree and add mixed spice and cinnamon, mix in a milky coffee and top with whipped cream. Move over Starbucks…
Face Scrubs
Pumpkin is surprisingly good for your skin, and there’s plenty of homemade recipes online to whip up your own exfoliating mask. Use the flesh to make a puree and concoct your own using natural ingredients – honey and sugar work well. They’re easy to make and the scent will have you in the seasonal spirit in no time!
DIY Air Freshener
Perhaps one of the most creative uses of a pumpkin is a DIY air freshener. Once carved, rub the inside of the lid with autumnal spices – think cinnamon or allspice. Light a candle within and you’ve got yourself a safe, seasonal and delicious smelling natural air freshener!
NOTE: If binning the flesh is the last, inevitable resort for you, it’s always better off in a compost bin rather than a general waste one.
