Pumpkin peel, often discarded while preparing pumpkin dishes, holds significant health benefits and culinary potential. If you have picky eaters at home who are not fond of pumpkin dishes, you can surprise them by turning pumpkin skins into crispy and tasty chips.
Benefits of Pumpkin Peel:
- Boosts Immunity: Pumpkin skins are rich in beta-carotene and vitamin A, which strengthen the immune system.
- Improves Digestion: High fiber content in pumpkin skins aids digestion and relieves constipation.
- Heart Health: Potassium in pumpkin skins helps regulate blood pressure, promoting heart health.
- Weight Management: Low in calories and high in fiber, pumpkin skins help you feel full, aiding in weight loss.
- Skin and Hair Health: Vitamin C and antioxidants in pumpkin skins contribute to healthy skin and strong, shiny hair.
How to Make Pumpkin Peel Chips:
Ingredients:
- Pumpkin skins (from 2-3 medium-sized pumpkins)
- Oil (for frying)
- Salt to taste
- Red chili powder to taste
- Chaat masala to taste
- (Optional) Oregano, thyme, or other preferred spices
Instructions:
- Wash and thinly slice the pumpkin skins.
- Soak the sliced pumpkin skins in water with a pinch of salt for 10-15 minutes.
- Heat oil in a pan.
- In a separate bowl, mix pumpkin skins with salt, red chili powder, chaat masala, and any other preferred spices.
- Remove the soaked pumpkin skins from water and pat them dry.
- Fry the pumpkin skins in hot oil until golden brown.
- Remove the fried pumpkin skins onto a plate and blot out excess oil with paper towels.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
By utilizing pumpkin peels to make chips, you not only reduce food waste but also add a nutritious and flavorful snack to your diet. So, next time you prepare pumpkin dishes, don’t discard the peels; turn them into delicious chips instead!