Mashed Pumpkin
A simple, comforting, and nutritious mash made with sweet pumpkin, aromatic ginger, and a touch of ghee. Perfectly soft and mildly spiced, it's an ideal first food for toddlers and a gentle meal for little tummies.
For 4 servings
Prepare the pumpkin.
Peel the pumpkin, remove the seeds and stringy parts, and cut it into small 1-inch cubes.
Cook the pumpkin until tender.
- Place the pumpkin cubes in a small pot or pan.
- Add 1/2 cup of water and a pinch of salt (if using).
- Cover and cook on medium heat for 10-12 minutes, or until the pumpkin is very soft and fork-tender.
TIPYou can also steam the pumpkin in a pressure cooker for 1-2 whistles to speed up the process and retain more nutrients.Mash the cooked pumpkin.
Once cooked, drain any excess water. Mash the pumpkin thoroughly with the back of a spoon or a potato masher until you have a smooth puree.
TIPFor a very smooth consistency suitable for younger babies, you can blend the cooked pumpkin in a food processor.Prepare the tempering.
- In a small pan (tadka pan), heat the ghee over low-medium heat.
- Add the cumin seeds and let them splutter gently.
- Add the grated ginger and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the turmeric powder and immediately turn off the heat.
TIPKeep the heat low to prevent the spices from burning, which can create a bitter taste.Combine and serve.
Pour the hot tempering over the mashed pumpkin and mix well. Allow it to cool down to a lukewarm temperature before serving to your toddler.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Always test the temperature of the mash on your wrist before feeding it to your child to ensure it's not too hot.
- 2For a smoother texture for younger babies (6-8 months), blend the final mash in a food processor.
- 3You can freeze this mash in ice cube trays for easy, single-portion servings. Thaw and reheat gently before serving.
- 4Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- 5Choose a pumpkin that is heavy for its size with a deep orange color for the best flavor and sweetness.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it's very healthy. Pumpkin is an excellent source of Vitamin A and C, which are crucial for vision and immunity. Ghee provides healthy fats essential for brain development, and the soft texture is great for digestion.
