How To Roast Pumpkin Seeds 3 Ways

How To Roast Pumpkin Seeds

Roasting pumpkin seeds is a simple process. You can choose from three excellent methods to roast them: oven-baking, stovetop cooking, or air-frying. Pick the one you like best, as they all produce perfectly roasted seeds.

1. How To Roast Pumpkin Seeds In A Pan

Ingredients:

• Pumpkin seeds
• Dash of salt or any seasonings of your choice

Equipment:

• Colander
• Cookie sheet
• Skillet

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Cleaning and drying the seeds:

Rinse the pumpkin seeds under running water. Use your fingers to carefully separate the seeds from any remaining pumpkin pulp. This ensures you're only toasting clean seeds.

After rinsing, drain the seeds in a colander to remove excess water. Then spread them out in a single layer on a cookie sheet. Leave them to air dry overnight. This step is crucial as dry seeds will toast more evenly and become crispier.

2. Toasting method:

Use a large, heavy-bottomed skillet for even heat distribution. Heat it over medium heat without adding any oil. Once hot, add the dried pumpkin seeds. Continuously stir and shake the pan to ensure the seeds toast evenly and don't burn.

3. Determining doneness:

Monitor the seeds closely as they toast. They're ready when they turn a golden color, start to pop open, and release a nutty aroma. This process usually takes about 5-10 minutes, depending on the quantity and size of the seeds.

4. Seasoning:

Immediately after removing from heat, while the seeds are still hot, sprinkle them with your choice of seasonings. The heat helps the spices adhere better. Toss the seeds to ensure an even coating.

You can use salt, garlic powder, onion powder, seasoned salt, cayenne pepper, or any combination of spices you prefer.

2. How To Roast Pumpkin Seeds In Air Fryer

Ingredients:

• 1 ¾ cups pumpkin seeds
• 2 teaspoons oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt

Equipment:

• Paper towels
• Medium bowl
• Air fryer

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Cleaning and drying the seeds:

Begin by placing your pumpkin seeds in a colander or strainer. Rinse them thoroughly under running water. This step helps remove any remaining pumpkin flesh and cleans the seeds.

Take a plate and cover it with two layers of paper towels. Spread the rinsed pumpkin seeds evenly over these towels.

Then, place two more paper towels on top of the seeds. Gently press down to absorb excess water. Leave the seeds clogged between the paper towels for at least 15 minutes to ensure they're completely dry.

2. Preheating the air fryer:

While the seeds are drying, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (180°C). This step affirms the air fryer is at the correct temperature when you're ready to cook the seeds.

3. Seasoning the seeds:

Once the seeds are dry, transfer them to a medium-sized mixing bowl. Add avocado oil, paprika, and salt to the seeds. Mix everything until all the seeds are evenly layered with oil and spices.

4. Cooking the seeds:

Spurt the seasoned seeds into your air fryer basket, spreading them out as much as possible. Cook them for a total of 35 minutes. During this time, shake the basket frequently to ensure even cooking.

Pay extra attention during the final 5 minutes of cooking, as pumpkin seeds can quickly go from perfectly roasted to burnt in this short time.

3. How To Roast Pumpkin Seeds In Oven

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups pumpkin seeds
• 2 teaspoons fine sea salt
• 2 teaspoons oil
• Spices of your choice

Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Saucepan

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Oven preparation:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). While it's heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This readies your cooking surface and avert the seeds from sticking.

2. Preparing the brine:

Fill a medium saucepan with 2 cups of water. Add 2 teaspoons of salt to the water and stir to dissolve. Place the saucepan on the stove and bring this salted water to a boil.

3. Cleaning the seeds:

While waiting for the water to boil, remove the seeds from your pumpkin. Place these seeds in a bowl of cold water. Gently swish them around in the water. The seeds will float to the top, separating from any pumpkin flesh.

4. Parboiling the seeds:

Once your salted water is boiling, add the cleaned pumpkin seeds to it. Lower the heat to maintain a simmer and let the seeds cook for 5 minutes. After simmering, pour the seeds into a strainer to drain the hot water.

While the seeds are still warm, remove any remaining bits of pumpkin flesh that might be clinging to them.

5. Drying the seeds:

Spread clean dish towels on your work surface. Scatter the seeds across these towels and use extra towels to pat them dry. Make sure to oust as much moisture as possible.

6. Seasoning:

Transfer the dried seeds to your prepared baking sheet, forming a stack in the center. Drizzle oil over the seeds and sprinkle your chosen spices on top. Toss everything together until the seeds are equally coated with oil and spices.

7. Roasting:

Spread the seasoned seeds into a single layer on the baking sheet. Place in the preheated oven. Bake for 10 to 25 minutes, depending on the amount of your seeds.

Stir the seeds at least once during this time to ensure even roasting. The seeds are done when they're fragrant and golden brown around the edges.

How Long To Roast Pumpkin Seeds

The time for roasting pumpkin seeds relies on the technique you choose. Here is the detail on the roasting time of pumpkin seeds:

Air Fryer:

Roast pumpkin seeds in an air fryer for 10-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C). This method is the quickest but requires frequent checking. Start checking at 10 minutes, as smaller seeds may be done sooner.

Shake the basket every 5 minutes to ensure even roasting. The total time may extend to 20 minutes for larger or wetter seeds.

Oven:

Oven roasting takes 30-45 minutes at 300°F (150°C). This longer, slower roast allows for more even cooking. Begin checking at 30 minutes, stirring the seeds every 10 minutes for uniform browning.

Larger batches or seeds with higher moisture content may need the full 45 minutes or even up to an hour. The lower temperature helps prevent burning while thoroughly drying the seeds.

Stovetop Pan:

Pan roasting is the fastest method, taking 5-7 minutes over medium heat. However, it requires constant attention. Stir the seeds frequently, about every 30 seconds, to prevent burning.

Smaller batches may be done in 5 minutes, while larger amounts might need the full 7 minutes or slightly longer. The seeds are done when they're lightly browned and start to make popping sounds.

Benefits Of Roasting Pumpkin Seeds

Pumpkin seeds provide an easy and healthier option of indulging in one of the by-products that result from pumpkin carving or cooking. Here are some of the benefits of pumpkin seeds:

1. Convenience

Roasting pumpkin seeds is a practical use for that part of the pumpkin that otherwise would be thrown away. Given that you are opening up the pumpkin and pulling out the seeds, it takes little extra effort to clean and roast them.

By preheating the oven while preparing the seeds, an efficient snack can be produced with minimal additional time and effort.

2. Flavor variety:

There's a lot you can do with pumpkin seeds when it comes to seasoning. You may try anything from:

• Spicy seasonings: chili powder and cayenne pepper
• Earthy flavors: curry powder or cumin
• Sweet and indulgent: cinnamon mixed with maple syrup.

You can also vary the type of fat used. Depending on your taste preference or dietary needs, one might use vegetable oil, melted butter, or coconut oil.

3. Nutritional value:

Pumpkin seeds are nutrient-dense foods that offer a wide variety of health benefits:

• Fiber: It comprises a good amount of dietary fiber that helps in digestion.
• Minerals: They are rich in zinc, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, and iron.
• Balanced nutrition: One ounce (28g) of pumpkin seeds contains:
• 126 calories
• 5.3g protein
• 5.5g fat (healthier unsaturated fats)
• 15g carbohydrates
• 5g dietary fiber 

This combination of nutrients gives all the proper grounds for pumpkin seeds to be included in the category of healthy and filling snacks that will contribute to a person's healthy diet.

Ways To Enjoy Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

Below is a list of ways that demonstrate how roasted pumpkin seeds can be included in various meals throughout the day, from breakfast oats to dinner soups and desserts.

1. Snack:

The mere way to enjoy roasted pumpkin seeds is as a standalone snack. Their crunchy texture and savory flavor make them satisfying to eat by the handful. They're portable, making them a great option for on-the-go snacking or as a healthier substitute for chips or crackers.

2. Salad topping:

Roasted pumpkin seeds can add a crunch and nutty flavor to salads. They work particularly well in autumn-themed salads, such as a Roasted Squash Salad with Crispy Shallot & Balsamic. The seeds enhance the soft texture of roasted squash and provide a contrast to leafy greens.

3. Soup garnish:

Sprinkling roasted pumpkin seeds on top of soups adds both texture and visual appeal. They're especially fitting for creamy, pureed soups like Curried Butternut Squash Soup. The seeds can provide a crunchy contrast to the smooth soup and enhance its flavor profile.

4. Sweet applications:

While often used in savory dishes, pumpkin seeds can also be incorporated into sweet recipes. When seasoned with Pumpkin Pie Spice (a blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice), they can be a great topping for:

• Vegan Vanilla Ice Cream: Adding a crunchy, spiced element to the smooth, cold dessert
• Pumpkin Pie Oats: Enhancing the pumpkin flavor and adding texture to a warm breakfast dish.