Yes, indeed pepitas are pumpkin seeds, but why can't I open the shell of the pumpkin seeds we pull out from our jack-o-lanterns and enjoy a tasty pepita?? Pumpkin seeds that come out of pumpkins grown from the garden every fall are a different variety than the pumpkins where pepitas can be harvested. Pepitas are found in varieties called Oilseed Pumpkin, Lady Godiva Pumpkin, Kakai Hulless Pumpkin and Styrian Pumpkin just to name a few. They do not have the outer white shell that we most commonly see. Pepitas are packed with manganese, tryptophan, magnesium, phosphorus, copper, protein, zinc, and iron. Pepitas may also promote prostate health, protect your bones, act as an anti-inflammatory, and lower cholesterol. They are delicious sprinkled on salads, added to any trail mix, and combined into any granola recipe. They can be munched on plain or for a special treat they can be roasted with a light dusting of sweet or savory seasonings. Pepitas!! Delicious!!
Be Happy and Healthy,
The Grain Market