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Seeds | Red Kuri Pumpkin
  • Seeds | Red Kuri Pumpkin
Seeds | Red Kuri Pumpkin

Seeds | Red Kuri Pumpkin

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Red Kuri Pumpkin Seeds, an exceptional squash variety known for its bright orange flesh, chestnut flavor, and creamy texture. This Japanese variety produces medium-sized fruits with a distinctive reddish-orange rind.
A LITTLE HISTORY

The Red Kuri Pumpkin is a variety of squash that is part of the Cucurbitaceae family and belongs to the pumpkin family. It is particularly prized for its mild, slightly sweet flavor, reminiscent of chestnuts, hence its name “potimarron” (pumpkin + chestnut).

Origin
The Red Kuri squash originated in Asia. While it's often associated with Japanese cuisine, it also has a long history in North America and Europe. In fact, it's derived from a variety of the Cucurbita maxima squash, which traces its origins to Central and South America. However, the Red Kuri squash is most commonly grown and enjoyed in Japan, where it's called "kabocha" in some regions, although the term "kabocha" often refers to several types of sweet-fleshed squash.

Broadcast in Europe
The pumpkin was introduced to Europe in the late 20th century, largely due to the growing interest in exotic vegetables and heirloom varieties, which found their way into modern vegetable gardens and organic markets. It gained popularity for its ability to be easily grown in temperate climates and for its flavor.

Features
The Red Kuri pumpkin is a small squash with smooth, shiny, reddish-orange skin, often shaped like a drop or a small pyramid. Its flesh is dense, orange in color, and has a soft, sweet texture, with a flavor reminiscent of roasted chestnuts, hence the name “chestnut.” This pumpkin is very versatile in cooking, whether in soup, puree, gratin, or roasted.

Use in cooking
Red Kuri is particularly appreciated for its simplicity of preparation: unlike other squash varieties, it does not need to be peeled because the skin becomes tender when cooked. In addition, its texture and flavor make it a choice ingredient for sweet recipes like pies or desserts, as well as for savory dishes.

In short, the Red Kuri squash has earned a place in cuisines around the world thanks to its sweetness, ease of cultivation, and culinary versatility. Its history dates back to squashes grown in warmer regions of the Americas, but it has spread widely to Asia and Europe in recent decades.
PROPERTIES

Red Kuri pumpkin, like other squashes, has several health benefits thanks to its nutrient- and antioxidant-rich composition. Here's a look at its main medicinal properties:

  • 1. Rich in antioxidants
    Red Kuri pumpkin is an excellent source of carotenoids, particularly beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant. Beta-carotene is a precursor to vitamin A, which is essential for healthy eyes, skin, and the immune system. Antioxidants also help fight oxidative stress in the body, reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular disease.
  • 2. Support for digestive health
    Red Kuri pumpkin is a good source of dietary fiber, particularly pectin, which promotes healthy digestion. Fiber helps regulate bowel movements, prevent constipation, and maintain a healthy gut flora. It also contributes to weight management by providing a feeling of fullness, which can be beneficial for weight management.
  • 3. Anti-inflammatory properties
    Squash, including pumpkin, is rich in vitamin C and minerals like magnesium and potassium. These nutrients have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the body and prevent chronic inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis or cardiovascular disease.
  • 4. Strengthens the immune system
    Thanks to its vitamin C content, Red Kuri pumpkin plays an important role in strengthening the immune system. Vitamin C is essential for the production of white blood cells, which fight infections and diseases. It also helps repair tissues and protect against external aggressions (pollution, viruses, etc.).
  • 5. Heart health
    Pumpkin is rich in potassium, a mineral essential for regulating blood pressure. Potassium helps maintain a healthy fluid balance in the body and reduce the effects of sodium, which can contribute to better heart health. Potassium, when combined with a balanced diet, can help prevent high blood pressure and reduce the risk of stroke.
  • 6. Diuretic properties
    Red Kuri pumpkin has natural diuretic effects, thanks to its water and potassium content. This can help eliminate toxins from the body and maintain fluid balance, which is beneficial for kidney and urinary system health. It can also be helpful in cases of water retention.
  • 7. Regulation of blood sugar
    Thanks to its low carbohydrate content and high fiber content, Red Kuri pumpkin may be beneficial for blood sugar regulation. Fiber slows the absorption of sugars into the blood, helping prevent glucose spikes after meals. This may be particularly beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition.
  • 8. Benefits for the skin
    Due to its richness in vitamin A, beta-carotene, and vitamin C, pumpkin may also have benefits for the skin. These vitamins are known for their regenerative and protective properties against free radical damage, which contributes to premature skin aging. They also promote healing and help maintain healthy, glowing skin.
  • 9. Benefits for the eyes
    Red Kuri pumpkin, thanks to its beta-carotene content, is beneficial for eye health. Beta-carotene is converted into vitamin A in the body, which is crucial for proper retinal function and for preventing vision disorders such as macular degeneration and night blindness.

 

Red Kuri pumpkin, rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and fiber, offers numerous health benefits. It supports the immune system, digestion, heart health, and skin, while also possessing anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties. Consumed regularly, it can help prevent various ailments and promote overall well-being.
HOW TO COOK?

The Red Kuri pumpkin is a very versatile vegetable in the kitchen. Its mild, sweet flesh lends itself to a multitude of dishes, both savory and sweet. Here are some ideas for cooking Red Kuri pumpkin in simple and delicious ways.

  • 1. Roasted pumpkin
    Roasting pumpkin is one of the easiest and tastiest ways to prepare it.

Preparation: Wash the squash thoroughly and cut it in half. Remove the seeds with a spoon.
Cooking: Cut the flesh into chunks or quarters (no need to peel, the skin becomes tender when cooked). Arrange the pieces on a baking sheet, brush them with olive oil, season with salt, pepper, and optionally herbs de Provence, thyme, or rosemary.
Cooking time: Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (around 180°C for a fan oven) for 30 to 40 minutes, until the flesh is tender and slightly caramelized.

  • 2. Pumpkin soup
    Pumpkin soup is a classic, comforting and simple to make.

Ingredients :
1 Red Kuri pumpkin
1 onion
2 cloves of garlic
1 potato (optional, to thicken)
Vegetable or chicken broth
Cream (optional)
Salt, pepper, spices (curry, nutmeg, cumin)
Preparation: Peel and cut the pumpkin into pieces. Slice the onion and garlic. Sauté the onion and garlic in a little olive oil or butter, then add the pumpkin and potato (if using).
Cooking: Add the broth and cook for about 20 to 30 minutes, until the pumpkin is tender. Blend the soup until smooth. Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and the spices of your choice.
Creamy Option: Add a little cream or coconut milk for an even creamier soup.
3. Pumpkin puree
A tasty alternative to mashed potatoes.

Preparation: Cut the pumpkin into pieces, without peeling, and steam or boil it until tender.
Cooking: Once cooked, mash with a fork or blend to make a puree. Add butter, cream, salt, pepper, and optionally a little grated nutmeg or grated cheese (e.g., Parmesan) for an even richer flavor.

  • 4. Pumpkin gratin
    A pumpkin gratin can be a delicious dish to serve as a side dish.

Ingredients :
1 Red Kuri pumpkin
Liquid cream
Grated cheese (Gruyere, Parmesan)
Garlic, salt, pepper, nutmeg
Preparation: Cut the pumpkin into thin slices (you can leave the skin on) and place them in a baking dish. Season with chopped garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Cover with cream and sprinkle with grated cheese.
Cooking: Bake at 180°C for approximately 30 to 40 minutes, until the gratin is golden brown and the flesh is tender.

  • 5. Roasted Pumpkin Salad
    For a hot or warm salad, roasted pumpkin can be an excellent ingredient.

Preparation: Roast the pumpkin as directed above. Once roasted, let it cool slightly before cutting it into cubes.
Assembly: Mix it with fresh vegetables like spinach or arugula, nuts (pecans, hazelnuts) or pumpkin seeds, crumbled goat cheese, and a vinaigrette made with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey.

  • 6. Pumpkin pie or cake
    Pumpkin can also be used in sweet recipes.

Pumpkin Tart: Use shortcrust or shortcrust pastry and spread a pumpkin puree mixed with eggs, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Bake at 180°C for 35 to 40 minutes.
Pumpkin Cake: Pumpkin can also be incorporated into a cake as a base ingredient for a moist texture. Mix the pumpkin puree with eggs, flour, sugar, baking powder, and spices (cinnamon, ginger). Bake at 180°C for 30 to 40 minutes.

  • 7. Pumpkin chips
    An original way to cook pumpkin for a snack.

Preparation: Cut the pumpkin into thin slices (with or without skin, according to your preference). Brush the slices with a little olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
Cooking: Bake the slices on a baking sheet at 180°C for 15 to 20 minutes, turning them halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Trick
The skin of the Red Kuri pumpkin becomes tender once cooked, so there's no need to peel it before cooking unless you prefer. This helps retain more nutrients and flavor.

Red Kuri Pumpkin can be roasted, cooked in soup, pureed, baked, or used in desserts. Its mild, sweet flavor makes it a delicious ingredient for a variety of comforting dishes.
HOW TO GROW?
  • Culture advice:
  • The Red Kuri pumpkin prefers warm, sunny conditions. Be sure to space your plants well and water them regularly, but not excessively. Once the fruit has formed, you can reduce watering to improve flavor concentration.
  • Squash should be harvested before the first frost to maintain their quality. After harvesting, you can store them in a cool, dry place away from light, such as under a bed or in a cellar, on a cardboard box. They will keep well for up to 1 year, provided they are not damaged.

Our seeds are vigorous, open-pollinated and adapted to the Quebec climate.

  • Species: Cucurbita maxima (Pumpkin Red Kuri)
  • Sowing: Early April under cover or outside greenhouse, or in open ground at the end of May, after the last frosts.
  • Seeds: 2 seeds per pot. Pots will be ready to plant in early June, after the risk of frost has passed.
  • Sowing depth: 2 to 3 cm
  • Germination time: 5 to 12 days
  • Soil: Slightly acidic soil, rich in organic matter, well-drained, loose and fresh.
  • Location: This variety of pumpkin requires full sun exposure and constant heat to grow properly.
  • Spacing between plants: 60 to 90 cm
  • Height at maturity: 1.5 to 2 m
  • Maturity: 90 to 120 days. Very productive once well established.
  • Seeds per envelope: Approximately 15 seeds

Our seeds are guaranteed for the year of purchase.

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