| Pantry | Refrigerator | Freezer | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Raw | 1-3 Months | - | 12 Months |
| Cut | - | 2-3 Days | 12 Months |
| Frozen | - | - | 12 Months |
Shelf Life of a Pumpkin:
Pumpkins are a winter squash. The uncut fresh pumpkin can last for about two months in the refrigerator. If the fresh pumpkin is cut, then it can be placed for up to 2 to 3 days in the refrigerator or can last for 6 to 8 months in the freezer.
Purchasing Pumpkins:
Select the pumpkin that is heavier in weight in comparison to the other pumpkins of a similar size. Choose an unblemished pumpkin and has a stem of about 2 to 4 inches in length. This will help the pumpkin remain fresh for a relatively longer period of time. Pumpkins should be firm enough when you apply pressure to them. Shiny skin shows that the pumpkin is not yet ripe, while a hazy look shows that it is getting rotten. Select the matte and dull looking skin. Observe that the pumpkin should be free of any brownish spots and without any cracks. There should be no sign of any mold on the pumpkin.
Storing a Pumpkin:
Pumpkins can be stored at room temperature or even in the refrigerator for about three months. Always wrap the cut pumpkin pieces in the plastic and keep it in the refrigerator for about five days. If fresh pumpkins are handled with care, then they can be used for a longer period of time. A temperature of 55°F is considered to be the best for pumpkins that have a stem since this helps the pumpkin to continue getting nourishment for a longer period of time. Any cool place like a basement can also be used to keep the pumpkins where the air is usually regulated so that the pumpkin can be prevented from over exposure to moisture and mold. If refrigerated, it can last for about 3 to 5 days in an airtight container. Pumpkins can also be stored in the freezer for 3 to 6 months in small chunks wrapped in plastic or in an airtight container. Pumpkin puree is not a good idea for storing because of the risk of bacterial growth.
How to Handle Pumpkins:
Firstly, wash the whole pumpkin thoroughly on the outside to remove dust and the debris stuck to it. Before cutting it into small piece, remove the skin. Slice the pumpkin in half and remove the seeds. Skin can be easily removed by placing the half sliced pumpkin into the microwave plate with a little water. This allows the pumpkin to loosen its skin. Microwave the pumpkin for a short period of time and allow it to cool. After that, you can easily remove its skin. Then slice the pumpkin into smaller chunks for instant using or place in your freezer to use at another time.
Cooking Pumpkins:
Pumpkin is very delicate in nature and can be cooked easily. They offer an awesome and delicious taste to the various dishes. Pumpkin is used for making pumpkin sauces or pumpkin puree. It is also cooked with meat, chicken or other vegetables. Smaller pumpkins are mostly used for cooking purposes because they take less time. Pumpkins only take a few minutes for cooking. Pumpkin is also used in a various number of sweet dishes such as pumpkin muffins.