How to buy sugar pumpkin and giant pumpkin seeds

Shape should not be the prime criterion when choosing sugar pumpkins, except when using one as a container for soup, stew or salad or when presenting the tiny ones as individual servings. Instead, look for a bright clear orange color with unblemished skin. Avoid any that have soft spots, brown spots, or cracks, or show signs of mold. Choose pumpkins that have been harvested with at least 2 to 3 inches of stem left on, which will keep them from drying out through the stem scar.

You can buy giant pumpkin seeds in the markets from mid September through early winter.

Because there is a lot of waste, you will need at least ¾ pound raw pumpkin per person.

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