As the seasons change and the weather starts to cool, there’s nothing quite like the warmth and comfort of a delicious pumpkin recipe. In India, where pumpkins are a staple ingredient in many regional cuisines, the possibilities are endless. From savory curries and stews to sweet desserts and snacks, we’ve curated 20 mouth-watering Indian spiced pumpkin recipes that will spice up your fall and winter cooking.
From classic combinations like pumpkin coconut curry to innovative twists on traditional dishes, this list has something for every palate and preference. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting to explore the world of Indian cuisine, these recipes are sure to inspire your next culinary adventure.
Pumpkin Coconut Curry
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful Pumpkin Coconut Curry that combines the best of fall’s harvest with the richness of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium pumpkin, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the coconut oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the pumpkin, coconut milk, and vegetable broth; stir to combine.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook, uncovered, for 20-25 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Spiced Pumpkin Dal
This comforting Indian-inspired lentil stew is perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening. The aromatic blend of spices, including cumin and coriander, complements the sweetness of roasted pumpkin, making this dish a delightful twist on traditional dal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
2. Roast the pumpkin cubes in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 30 minutes, or until tender.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and salt to the pot with the lentils. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Add the roasted pumpkin cubes to the pot and stir well.
5. Simmer for a further 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 45 minutes
Pumpkin Halwa
A creamy and comforting Indian dessert made with roasted pumpkin, milk, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 small to medium-sized pumpkin (about 2 lbs)
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 cup ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– Pinch of salt
– Chopped nuts or dried fruit for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the pumpkin in half and roast it for 30-40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender.
2. Scoop out the roasted pumpkin flesh and blend it with milk, ghee or oil, sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt until smooth.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the halwa thickens slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Garnish with chopped nuts or dried fruit, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Pumpkin Sambar
A flavorful and aromatic Indian-inspired stew that combines the sweetness of pumpkin with the warmth of spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium pumpkin, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt, to taste
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon tamarind paste (optional)
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add pumpkin cubes and stir to coat with the spice mixture. Cook for 5 minutes.
4. Add water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender.
5. Stir in tamarind paste (if using) and season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice, naan, or roti.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pumpkin Paratha
Warm up with a flavorful and aromatic Indian flatbread infused with the sweetness of pumpkin.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup ghee or unsalted butter, melted
– 3/4 cup lukewarm water
– 1/2 cup cooked and mashed pumpkin
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Ghee or oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add the melted ghee or butter and mix until crumbly.
3. Gradually add the lukewarm water to form a dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into 6 equal portions.
5. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten it slightly into a disk shape.
6. Brush one side with melted ghee or oil and sprinkle sugar.
7. Fold the other half to form a triangle, pressing edges to seal.
8. Cook on a hot griddle or non-stick pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Paratha with a cup of chai or as a snack!
Pumpkin Kootu
Warm up with this comforting South Indian-inspired pumpkin stew, perfect for a cozy evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized pumpkin, diced
– 2 tablespoons of oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 4 cups of water
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add diced pumpkin, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and salt. Stir well.
5. Pour in 4 cups of water and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pumpkin Bharta
A flavorful and nutritious Indian-inspired dish that combines roasted pumpkin with aromatic spices and herbs, served over rice or roti.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the pumpkin cubes with 1 tablespoon of oil, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and salt.
3. Spread the pumpkin mixture on a baking sheet and roast for 30 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat.
5. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
6. Add the roasted pumpkin to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot over rice or roti.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Pumpkin Rasam
A flavorful and comforting South Indian-inspired soup made with roasted pumpkin, aromatic spices, and creamy coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
– 4 cups water
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss pumpkin cubes with oil, salt, and cumin powder. Roast for 30 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large pan, sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until the onion is translucent.
4. Add roasted pumpkin, turmeric, and chili flakes (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Pour in water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors meld together.
6. Stir in coconut milk. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pumpkin Thoran
Experience the warmth of South Indian flavors with this simple and delicious Pumpkin Thoran recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the mustard and cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 10 seconds.
3. Add the onions and sauté until they are translucent.
4. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
5. Add the pumpkin cubes and salt to taste.
6. Stir well and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender.
Cooking Time: About 25-30 minutes
Serve:
Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with roti/naan.
Pumpkin Payasam
A traditional Indian dessert made with pumpkin puree, milk, and nuts, perfect for the fall season.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked pumpkin puree
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon ghee or unsalted butter
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds and cashews (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the pumpkin puree, milk, sugar, ghee or butter, cardamom, and salt.
2. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the payasam thickens slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Stir in chopped nuts, if using.
6. Refrigerate until chilled before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pumpkin Chana Masala
This recipe combines the warmth of Indian spices with the comfort of roasted pumpkin, creating a unique and delicious twist on traditional chana masala.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss pumpkin cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pan, heat remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, cumin, curry powder, garam masala, and turmeric. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. Add chickpeas and roasted pumpkin to the pan. Stir well to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Pumpkin Biryani
Get ready to experience a unique twist on traditional biryani with the warmth of pumpkin! This recipe combines the flavors of basmati rice, aromatic spices, and roasted pumpkin for a truly mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium pumpkin, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the basmati rice according to package instructions.
2. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss pumpkin cubes with oil, cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Combine cooked rice, roasted pumpkin, and spice mixture. Season with salt to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pumpkin Pakora
Get ready to warm up with this sweet and crispy Pumpkin Pakora! A twist on the classic Indian fritter, these bite-sized treats are perfect for fall gatherings or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup chickpea flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup lukewarm water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, chickpea flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add the lukewarm water to form a smooth batter.
3. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the batter into the oil, forming spherical shapes.
5. Fry the pakora for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total
Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Pakora!
Pumpkin Thepla
Discover the delight of Indian-inspired pumpkin-filled flatbread with this easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup ghee or oil
– 1 medium pumpkin, cooked and mashed
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and warm water to form a dough. Knead for 5 minutes.
2. Divide the dough into 6 equal portions.
3. Roll each portion into a thin circle (about 1/8 inch thick).
4. Place 1-2 tablespoons of mashed pumpkin in the center of each circle.
5. Sprinkle cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper (if using) over the pumpkin.
6. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or square shape.
7. Seal the edges by pressing with your fingers.
8. Cook Theplas on a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pumpkin Kadhi
A delicious and comforting Indian-inspired pumpkin stew, Pumpkin Kadhi is a perfect dish for the fall season. This flavorful recipe combines roasted pumpkin with aromatic spices and creamy yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast the pumpkin cubes with 1 tablespoon of oil until tender, about 30 minutes.
2. In a large pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add onions and cook until they start browning.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add roasted pumpkin, salt, and 1 cup of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Stir in yogurt and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Pumpkin Sabzi
Warm up with this flavorful and aromatic Indian dish that combines the comfort of pumpkin with the spices of North India.
Ingredients:
– 1 small to medium-sized pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent (about 3 minutes).
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add pumpkin cubes and stir to combine with spice mixture.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Pumpkin Dosa
A twist on the classic Indian dosa, this recipe combines the warm spices of fall with the crispy, fermented bread popular in South India.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups pumpkin puree
– 1 cup rice flour
– 1/4 cup split black gram (urad dal)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree and rice flour until smooth.
2. Add the urad dal and baking soda; mix well.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Heat a small amount of oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
5. Using your hands, shape the batter into small patties (dosas).
6. Cook the dosas for 3-4 minutes on each side, until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Yield: 12-15 dosas
Pumpkin Laddoo
A classic Indian sweet treat, Pumpkin Laddoos are perfect for the fall season. Made with roasted pumpkin, nuts, and spices, these bite-sized energy balls are a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup roasted pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon ghee or unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, almonds, sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Add the melted ghee or butter to the mixture and mix until a dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions, depending on how large you want your laddoos to be.
4. Shape each portion into a ball and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! These laddoos are best served fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Laddoos!
Pumpkin Chutney
This sweet and tangy pumpkin chutney is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite Indian dishes, from naan to tandoori chicken. With its rich flavor profile and vibrant orange color, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent (about 5 minutes).
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add pumpkin, salt, sugar, vinegar, and water. Stir well.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the chutney has thickened.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Pumpkin Upma
Warm up with this autumnal twist on traditional Indian Upma! This comforting, savory dish is a perfect blend of pumpkin and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup water or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the oats and water/broth to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes or until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and have a creamy consistency.
3. Add the pumpkin puree, ghee/oil, chopped onion, cumin, and salt. Stir well to combine.
4. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Upma!
Summary
Get ready to spice up your fall with these 20 delectable pumpkin recipes from India! From comforting curries and hearty stews to sweet treats and savory snacks, this collection has something for everyone. Try Pumpkin Coconut Curry, Spiced Pumpkin Dal, or Pumpkin Halwa for a taste of India’s rich culinary heritage. Or, indulge in sweet treats like Pumpkin Payasam or Pumpkin Laddoo. With such a diverse range of recipes, you’ll never get bored of pumpkin again!
Leave a Reply