Slow Cooker Pumpkin Puree
Discover the simplicity of making your own pumpkin puree using a slow cooker! This homemade recipe yields velvety smooth pumpkin puree without the hassle of hours spent monitoring an oven. Perfect for incorporating into your favorite fall recipes like pies, muffins, and breads, this technique allows you to enjoy the rich, natural flavor of pumpkin. By keeping the skin on while cooking, you not only enhance the color and nutrient content but also retain the delicious taste. Suitable for meal prep, this puree can be enjoyed within a week or frozen for longer storage, making it a staple for seasonal baking.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
2
Ingredients
Ingredients
small pumpkin
1 (cleaned and cut into pieces)
water
1 tablespoon (added to the slow cooker)
Instructions
1
Begin by thoroughly washing the pumpkin, ensuring any dirt and debris are removed. If the pumpkin has a stem, carefully remove it to create a flat surface.
2
Cut the pumpkin in half using a sharp knife, then scoop out all the seeds and stringy pulp with an ice cream scoop or melon baller. Make sure to get all the fibrous bits out.
3
Next, cut the pumpkin halves into smaller pieces and place them into the slow cooker.
4
Add one tablespoon of water to the slow cooker to help facilitate steaming. Cover with the lid, set to low, and cook for 4 to 6 hours, or until the pumpkin flesh becomes tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
5
Once cooked, remove the pumpkin pieces from the slow cooker and allow them to cool a bit before handling.
6
To puree, place the pumpkin flesh (including skin, if desired) into a blender or food processor. If using a blender, you may add a tablespoon of water to assist the blending process, but avoid adding too much to prevent a watery consistency. Blend until smooth, working in batches if necessary.
7
After pureeing, transfer the pumpkin puree to airtight containers for immediate use, or freeze in portions for up to several months for future recipes.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is slow cooker pumpkin puree?
Slow cooker pumpkin puree is a homemade version of the canned staple, made by steaming fresh pumpkin pieces in a slow cooker until tender and then blending them until smooth.
How many ingredients do I need for this recipe?
You only need two ingredients: one small pumpkin and a tablespoon of water.
What is the first step in preparing the pumpkin?
The first step is to thoroughly wash the pumpkin to remove any dirt or debris and then remove the stem to create a flat surface.
Do I need to remove the seeds and pulp?
Yes, you should cut the pumpkin in half and scoop out all the seeds and stringy pulp before cooking.
What is the best tool for scooping out pumpkin seeds?
An ice cream scoop or a melon baller is recommended for efficiently removing the seeds and fibrous bits.
Should I peel the pumpkin before placing it in the slow cooker?
No, you can leave the skin on. Keeping the skin on helps enhance the color and nutrient content of the final puree.
How much water should I add to the slow cooker?
Add only one tablespoon of water to the slow cooker to help facilitate the steaming process.
What setting should I use on the slow cooker?
Set your slow cooker to the low setting for this recipe.
How long does it take to cook the pumpkin?
The pumpkin should cook for 4 to 6 hours, or until the flesh is tender.
How do I know when the pumpkin is ready?
The pumpkin is ready when the flesh can be easily pierced with a fork.
Do I need to cool the pumpkin before pureeing?
Yes, allow the cooked pumpkin pieces to cool slightly so they are safe to handle before placing them in a blender.
Can I blend the pumpkin skin?
Yes, you can include the skin in the blender to create a nutrient-rich puree with a deeper color.
What equipment can I use to puree the pumpkin?
You can use either a blender or a food processor to achieve a smooth consistency.
Should I add water while blending?
You can add a tablespoon of water to assist the blending process if necessary, but avoid adding too much to prevent a watery texture.
What should I do if my blender is too small?
If you have a large amount of pumpkin, work in batches to ensure every piece is blended thoroughly.
How should I store the finished pumpkin puree?
Transfer the puree to airtight containers and store it in the refrigerator or freezer.
How long does the puree last in the refrigerator?
Homemade pumpkin puree can be enjoyed for up to one week when stored in the fridge.
Can I freeze homemade pumpkin puree?
Yes, the puree can be frozen in portions for up to several months.
What are some ways to use pumpkin puree?
It is perfect for fall recipes such as pumpkin pies, muffins, breads, and even savory soups.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely, since it can be stored or frozen, it is an excellent staple to prepare in advance for seasonal baking.
Does this recipe contain any added sugar?
No, this recipe relies on the natural flavor of the pumpkin and contains no added sugars.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it only uses pumpkin and water.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, pumpkin puree is naturally gluten-free.
Why is slow cooking better than roasting?
Slow cooking is a hands-off method that prevents the pumpkin from drying out and requires less monitoring than an oven.
Can I use the pumpkin seeds?
While not used in the puree, you can clean and roast the scooped-out seeds for a healthy snack.
How many pumpkins does this recipe use?
This specific recipe is designed for one small pumpkin.
What is the texture of the finished puree?
The finished puree should be velvety smooth.
Can I cook the pumpkin on high instead of low?
The instructions recommend the low setting for 4-6 hours to ensure even steaming and tenderness.
Does keeping the skin on change the taste?
Keeping the skin on retains the delicious, natural taste and adds nutritional value without negatively affecting the flavor.
Is it necessary to cut the pumpkin into smaller pieces?
Yes, cutting the pumpkin into smaller pieces allows them to fit better in the slow cooker and ensures they cook evenly.