Are pumpkin seeds and kernels the same?
Technically, yes pepitas and pumpkin seeds are the same thing. But pepitas (which mean “little seeds of squash” in Spanish) don’t have a shell and are found in only select pumpkin varieties. If you felt adventurous and tried to shuck them you’d find a small seed, or pepita, inside.
What are the health benefits of pumpkin kernels?
Here are the top 11 health benefits of pumpkin seeds that are supported by science.
- Full of Valuable Nutrients.
- High in Antioxidants.
- Linked to a Reduced Risk of Certain Cancers.
- Improve Prostate and Bladder Health.
- Very High in Magnesium.
- May Improve Heart Health.
- Can Lower Blood Sugar Levels.
- High in Fiber.
Can you eat raw pumpkin seed kernels?
Pumpkin seeds can be eaten raw but taste especially delicious roasted. To roast them, toss them in olive oil or melted butter, plus salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you desire.
Can you eat pumpkin kernels?
Pumpkin seeds, also known as pepitas, can be consumed with or without their shells. Once you’ve scooped them out of the pumpkin, it’s advisable to soak them in water for a few hours to help remove the pulp from the shells.
Which is better sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds?
To sum up, sunflower seeds are higher in calories, protein and fats. Pumpkin seeds, on the other hand, are significantly higher in carbs, including dietary fiber. Sunflower seeds are richer in both vitamins and minerals, especially B complex vitamins, vitamin C, phosphorus, copper, manganese and iron.
What is the healthiest way to eat pumpkin seeds?
Toss a handful on top of your salad (raw or roasted with some salt). Blend them into your smoothie or place them on top for some crunch. Mix them in with your oatmeal or granola (roasted with maple syrup). Try out a pumpkin seed butter blend with maple syrup, coconut oil, cinnamon, and sea salt.
How do you prepare pumpkin seeds for consumption?
Keep an eye on the pumpkin seeds so they don’t get over toasted. When lightly browned, remove the pan from the oven and let cool on a rack. Let the pumpkin seeds cool all the way down before eating. Either crack to remove the inner seed (a lot of work and in my opinion, unnecessary) or eat whole.
Which is better flax seeds or pumpkin seeds?
The one significant nutritional difference between the two seeds is the omega-3 content in flaxseeds. Including more omega-3 fatty acids in your diet can help improve blood pressure, blood cholesterol levels, and heart health. Pumpkin seeds are not a significant source of omega-3 fatty acids.
What are the side effects of pumpkin seeds?
Upset Stomach. If you are eating a large amount of pumpkin seeds, you may end up with a stomach ache, one of the side effects of pumpkin seeds. This is from the rich, fatty oils, ingested in certain quantities causing possible cramps and stomach pain.
Where can you buy organic pumpkin seeds?
Pumpkin seeds of all varieties are typically available at home and garden stores, or at nurseries. Additionally, seeds can be purchased online at various websites. An excellent place to purchase organic pumpkin seeds is from local farmers who save seeds or websites that offer seed exchanges.
Is it safe to eat raw pumpkin seeds?
Because the seeds are contained within the shell of the pumpkin, they are not exposed to any surface contamination or bacteria, making them generally recognized as safe for raw consumption. If you’re looking for a departure from the classic roasting traditions, raw pumpkin seeds are a great texture…
What are the health benefits of eating pumpkin seeds?
Pumpkin seeds are a rich source of healthy fats, fibers and various antioxidants that are beneficial for the heart. These seeds consist of monounsaturated fatty acids that help to lower bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol in the blood.