From carving to cook, we have all the ideas for pumpkin fun…
Nick Rose from Farrington’s Farm grows lots of pumpkins on the farm in Farrington Gurney. But remember, pumpkins are not just for carving – they make for tasty recipes too! Nick gives us his top tips on carving and cooking this spooky squash.
Carving a traditional Jack O’Lantern
Have a go at carving your own pumpkin at home…
To carve you will need:
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- A grown-up – pumpkin skin is tough and you may need a grown-up to help you.
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- Carving tools including a variety of spoons, knives and other tools for decorating.
- Large wipeable cloth or newspaper – carving can be messy!
- A bowl to catch all the seeds and pumpkin gloop!
- Look at the pumpkin and decide where your face is going to be.
- Use a ballpoint pen or marker to draw the outline for the eyes, nose and mouth – you can wipe off the marks with a damp cloth after you are done or if you go wrong.
- Draw an outline for the lid. It needs to be large enough for your hand to fit inside the pumpkin. Tip – draw a hexagon lid – it’s easier to cut than a circle!
- Using a small sharp knife or pumpkin knife cut out your lid. Try and cut the lid at an inwards angle and always cut away from your hand.
- Use a large spoon to scoop out the seeds and the stringy bits. Scrape the sides, bottom and lid to clean them (this stops mould growing).
- Carefully cut out the eyes, nose and mouth. You can pop the pieces out from the inside if needed.
- Place a tea light or candle in the bottom of your pumpkin.
- Light and enjoy the warm glow. Your pumpkin lantern will last for around 3 – 4 days after cutting.
Top tip – don’t throw away your pumpkin seeds. Simply oven roasted, they make a wonderfully nutty snack! Or plant them and grow your own pumpkins next year!