Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that transforms the humble Hokkaido pumpkin into a sensational, spice-packed masterpiece! This recipe isn't just another side dish – it's a flavor explosion that will revolutionize your approach to vegetarian cooking. With a perfect balance of heat, crispiness, and natural pumpkin sweetness, these roasted cubes will have your dinner guests begging for the recipe.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium Hokkaido pumpkin, cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Wash the Hokkaido pumpkin thoroughly under cool running water. Since Hokkaido pumpkins have an edible skin, there's no need to peel it. Cut the pumpkin in half, remove the seeds, and then cube the pumpkin into roughly 1-inch uniform pieces to ensure even roasting.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, cayenne pepper, and salt. Whisk the ingredients together to create a smooth, well-blended spice mixture.
- Add the cubed pumpkin to the bowl and toss thoroughly, ensuring each piece is evenly coated with the spicy oil mixture. Use a spatula or your hands to massage the spices into the pumpkin pieces.
- Spread the seasoned pumpkin cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure the pieces are not overcrowded to allow proper roasting and caramelization.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, turning the pumpkin pieces halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and crispy edges.
- Remove from the oven when the pumpkin is golden brown, slightly caramelized, and a fork can easily pierce through the pieces. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro for added freshness and visual appeal.
Tips
- Choose a fresh, firm Hokkaido pumpkin with vibrant color and no soft spots for the best flavor and texture.
- Cut your pumpkin cubes as uniformly as possible to ensure even roasting and caramelization.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet – give each pumpkin piece breathing room to achieve those crispy, golden edges.
- Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing cayenne pepper according to your heat tolerance.
- For extra flavor complexity, try adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cumin to the spice mix.
- Use a high-quality olive oil for better flavor infusion and more even coating of spices.
- Let the pumpkin rest for a few minutes after roasting to allow the flavors to settle and the exterior to crisp up further.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 124kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
