Happy VeganMoFo 2012!

Today is the first day of Vegan MoFo, also known as vegan month of food, and I’m so excited. Make sure to sign up for one or more of the rss feeds on their site to keep up with the best vegan month of the year!

I always think I’ll have a theme for this big, vegan event, but it’s hard for me to just pick one thing. I’m going to try the theme of fall with emphasis on pumpkin where ever possible. But I reserve the right to change my mind – a lot…

The pie pumpkin before cooking but after being thoroughly washed.

Last week the pie pumpkins were peeking out at me begging to join in on some cooking fun. I’ve talked about making pumpkin puree before, but today I’m providing some step-by-step instructions and pictures. Let’s hear it for trying to overachieve for Mofo!

It’s really easy to make, but you’ve heard that before. Plus if you’re like me, you want to see some proof ; ) [Read more...]

Beyond Easy Pumpkin Purée


Never worry about a canned pumpkin shortage again. Each fall pie pumpkins are sprinkled in with the larger Jack-o-lantern pumpkins. Pie pumpkins are smaller and many will even fit in a small slow cooker. Plus pie pumpkins are tastier, and meant to be used in cooking. Use in any recipe that calls for cooked or canned pumpkin. Freeze in 1 1/2 cup portions, so you can thaw out the same amount that’s in one can.

Beyond Easy Pumpkin Purée

1 pie pumpkin that will fit in your slow cooker

Wash the pumpkin, and poke holes in it for the steam to escape. Place it in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. When it’s ready, a fork should easily slide through the skin and the flesh.

Let the pumpkin cool until you can touch it without burning yourself. Move it to a cutting board, and slice it in half. Remove seeds and pumpkin guts. Scrape the flesh into a food processor or blender and purée until smooth.

Yields: 3 to 6 cups
Total Prep Time: 3 minutes
Total Cooking Time: 6 to 8 hours