Halloween and pumpkins might go hand in hand. But we decided that we would rather eat ours than carve them — given just how delicious — this member of the gourd family can be. From an award-winning Pumpkin Cocktail to a Roasted Pumpkin puree-infused Mac ’n’ cheese, this edible trail is a mash-up of unexpected, hearty and oh-so-decadent. And away we go!
Squash goals
You might be hearing about a Thai Pumpkin Custard for the first time. A popular treat in the villages of Thailand, especially during the Songkran festival — this dessert is made using Thai staples like coconut milk and pandan leaves, as well as eggs, palm sugar, rice flour and a dash of salt. If you’re trying this at home, scour your supermarket for the kabocha squash, a commonly used pumpkin in Thai cooking. Available at Vasco’s, Hilton. On request. INR 500 plus taxes.
Raise a toast
How about sipping on an award-winning pumpkin cocktail this Halloween? And believe it or not — pumpkin is the only ingredient. The drink which won the top place at the Diageo World Class Bartending Competition held earlier this year was created using every element of the pumpkin. The fruit is converted into a splendid drink with Lagavulin, the stem and peel of the fruit is used as tincture and the seeds are broiled and powdered, to be used for the rim of the glass and garnish! Available on request. At Chipstead, Taj Coromandel. Price: INR 1,200 all-inclusive.
Bowties & smoothies
We’ve heard of pumpkin pie. But a pumpkin pie-inspired smoothie is certainly a first! Look out for one with spices like nutmeg and cinnamon, banana, milk, yoghurt and pumpkin seeds for crunch and a second variant curated specifically for chocolate lovers. We also have to mention the Pumpkin in a bowtie — a farfalle pasta in an aglio olio sauce tossed with pumpkin and kovakkai (ivy gourd) for a local touch. At Pumpkin Tales. INR 250 upwards for smoothies and INR 450 for pasta.
What’s the thyme?
If you’re a fan of Italian cuisine, this red pumpkin gnocchi serves up a hearty platter of indulgence. The gnocchi is tossed in amber butter and thyme roasted pumpkin, then topped with charoli nuts and served with parmesan cheese sauce. Yum! At Cafe Mercara Express, ITC Grand Chola. Price on request.
Oh my gourd!
Sample this golden Dum Root Halwa made with grated ash gourd or white pumpkin, sugar and a touch of saffron. A popular dessert at wedding functions, this dense South Indian speciality is best-served warmed and topped with slivers of cashews or almonds for crunch. At Sea Salt. Price: INR 165.
Easy as pie
Pumpkin shepherd’s pie anyone? The Savera’s innovative twist on this classic comes with a generous layer of pumpkin mash along with all of the familiar ingredients like minced meat cooked in a gravy with onions, peas, celery and carrot. For a delicious bonus, cut through a layer of melted cheese on top! On request, a vegetarian Pumpkin cottage cheese variant is available as well. At Piano, Savera. Price: INR 550 nett.
So good, you might cheddar a tear
This Roasted Pumpkin purée-infused Mac ’n’ cheese is to die for. Made with a base of brown butter sage sauce and bechamel and a trio of cheeses — cheddar, mozzarella and parmesan — decadent might bit of an understatement. Chicken or prawn add-ons are optional. Available on request. At Summer House Eatery. INR 350.
sonali@newindianexpress.com | @brightasunshine