Pumpkin belongs to the category of fruit and vegetables and it can be used to prepare many different dishes - from desserts to soup or main dishes. It is one of the oldest cultivated plants and is believed to be native to South America, where it was consumed around 8,000 years ago.
However, it came to Europe much later - in the 16th century and gradually spread throughout the world. Pumpkin is very healthy and helps prevent cancer, blood vessel problems, eyesight problems and many others.
Basically, most people like cooked pumpkin, but it is equally good raw and can be eaten both ways. Many pumpkin lovers wonder if a pumpkin should be peeled or not.
The answer is that the pumpkin must be peeled if it is to be eaten raw, if it is to be eaten roasted then it is not necessary. Here's how you can peel a pumpkin.
When the pumpkin skin is fresh and soft, it is easily peeled with a peeler or knife. When it is dry and rough, however, you can roast the pumpkin without peeling it.
If you still need it raw, cut it into pieces and peel it with a sharp knife on a board.
Sometimes you can also use a grater. After you grate the soft part, the peel will remain in your hand.
