Pumpkins have a rich history and a lot more vitamins than most people think. Learn about the fruit that flavors your latte!
1. Pumpkins are native to North America.
Unlike many common fruits, pumpkins originated in the Western Hemisphere. The oldest seeds, found in Mexico, are estimated to be over 6,000 years old.
2. The pumpkin spice trend began in the 1800's.
Colonists first experimented cooking with pumpkins in the late 1600's when they cooked the orange fruit for the whole day then added butter, cinnamon, and spices. In the 1800's, cooks upped their game by adding sugar and a milk base that simmered on the fire.
3. Pumpkins are classified as fruit.
As you may have noticed, I refer to pumpkins as fruits because they are not vegetables. Pumpkins are gourds and related to squash and cucumbers.
4. The concept of the jack-o'-lantern was brought to the U.S by Irish immigrants.
In Ireland, people have been carving beets, turnips, and potatoes to scare away evils spirits on All Hallow's Eve, but when they arrived in America, they found the pumpkin to be a better option because it was much larger and easier to carve.
5. Illinois produces the most pumpkins of any state.
Over 90% of the United States' pumpkins are grown solely in Illinois.
6. The heaviest pumpkin ever grown weighed over 2,500 pounds.
That is more than a ton! Imagine all of the pies that could make.
7. Pumpkins have an average of 500 seeds.
Pumpkin seeds taste delicious when roasted and salted. Pumpkins are also very nutritious. Beta-carotene is in abundance thanks to its orange color and its fibrous composure is packed with vitamin C, B, and A as well as many minerals such as iron and phosphorous.
Now that you've gorged on these tasty facts, find something with real pumpkin to make!
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