Pumpkin Flower and its benefits

I grew up seeing pumpkin flowers placed on Cow dung on kolam in front of the house during margazhi masam.

I didn't know that pumpkin flowers actually can be cooked until I was chatting with my neighbor recently. I should tell you that by adding the pumpkin flowers in curries, dal and any dish that you are cooking it adds an aroma that is incomparable. The floral scent from the pumpkin flower is heavenly, exotic, fragrant!!! It adds a divine taste to the dish!!!!

Pumpkin flowers and health benefits:

- They consists of a rich amount of vitamin B9 that is essential for sperm creation

- They are a source of Vitamin A and keeps eyes moist, adjusts to light changes and improves night vision

- They enhances immunity

- They are very good for maintaining healthy gums and tooth enamel. Also, helps in relieving serious problems like bone loss known as osteoporosis

Here is the link to growing Pumpkin plant in your garden:

https://lathaayurveda.wixsite.com/website/post/growing-a-pumpkin-plant-update-one

Update one is above and there are a total of four updates.

I made beetroot curry and added the pumpkin flowers to enhance the flavor and aroma!!

Beetroot curry recipe:

Beets - 3 nos medium sized

Pumpkin Flowers - 4

Spices - Mustard, Urad, Chana and cumin - 1/4 tsp

Turmeric and Asafoetida - A pinch

Grated coconut - 1 tsp ( optional )

Oil - Sesame or Coconut ( 1 Tsp )

- Peel the beet's skin and cut into small cubes to boil in cooker with 3 whistles

- Wash the pumpkin flowers and cut the petals leaving out the stem and stamen

- Heat a pan, use 1 tsp of sesame oil or coconut oil

- Wait till the oil is warmed up a bit, then add mustard, allow the mustard seeds to pop and add cumin seeds, urad and chana dal, a pinch of turmeric and asafoetida

- Add the boiled beets and cut pumpkin flowers. Mix the ingredients and add salt to taste.

- You may add grated coconut (if you like). Saute for a few minutes and switch off the stove.

Your beetroot with pumpkin flower curry is ready to be served!!!

I ate them with chappathis and I should say, it tasted yummy!!!!

Please try this and share your comments.