Back in the day, the rich would use slivers of pistachio as a garnish for mithai while the poor would have to make do with pumpkin seeds.
These flat green seeds are one of nature’s most nourishing foods. Here is why :
– They contain high amounts of vitamin E, B-complex, magnesium, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids.- Pumpkin seeds promote overall prostate health and alleviate difficult urination associated with an enlarged prostate gland.- They are an excellent source of tryptophan, the amino acid which is needed for good quality sleep and for keeping anxiety and depression at bay.- The B-complex vitamins in pumpkin seeds work as co-factors in the body to help reduce cholesterol and enhance GABA activity which is also known to reduce anxiety and neurological disorders.- Pumpkin seeds also contain anti-inflammatory properties which provide benefit for those that suffer with chronic inflammation such as in sinusitis, arthritis, bursitis, and other autoimmune disorders.- Pumpkin seeds have high concentrations of phytosterols that can help to inhibit the absorption of cholesterol in the gastrointestinal tract which ultimately can help reduce the bad cholesterol in the body. – Since they are high in zinc, pumpkin seeds help to prevent kidney stones and osteoporosis. – They are a natural cure for tapeworms and intestinal parasites.
Roasted pumpkin seeds have a nutty flavor. You can easily roast them at home
– Cut a portion of red pumpkin and immediately pull out the seeds.
– Rinse the seeds in cold water and remove the pulp and fibrous strings.
– Place the seeds in a heated pan or on a baking tray if you wish to roast them in an oven..
– Add a tsp of oil and stir well to coat the seeds.
– Roast until they are crunchy, stirring every 5 minutes to prevent them from getting burnt.
– Cool and store in an airtight container.
Sprinkle these roasted pumpkin seeds on salads, add them to your breakfast cereal or porridge or hummus or dips or trail mixes, or mix them with figs apricots and dates to make your own healthy energy bars.
Stay blessed with good health …always!!!
Warm regards,
Charmaine D’Souza