Pumpkin gets a lot of attention this time of year, and for good reason!
It's rich in soluble fiber and has a demulcent quality, which aids in smooth digestion and helps alleviate constipation and bloating, thereby promoting a healthy gut.
It's high in beta-carotene and packed with vitamin C, iron, and other essential nutrients that bolster the immune system and nourish the skin and eyes.
Did you know that pumpkins have long been used as a natural sedative? The earth element predominates in pumpkin making it a heavy, grounding, and nutritive ingredient. This earthy quality gives pumpkin its natural relaxant effect and makes it a timely medicinal food to counteract the erratic, ungrounded energy present during Fall.
Let's not forget the seeds! Pumpkin seeds are loaded with tryptophan ~ an amino acid that helps produce serotonin, the "feel-good" transmitter. Regular consumption can lift your mood and enhance sleep.
This quick and easy recipe is a delicious and nutritious way to put some pumpkin into your diet.
Loaded with several nutrient-dense and digestive-enhancing ingredients like chia seeds, figs, and warming spices, this pudding can make a great light breakfast, light dinner, or snack.
Almond-Spiced Pumpkin Pudding
Ingredients:
2 cups milk (dairy or plant)
1 (14 oz) can pumpkin puree
¼ cup chia seeds
¼ cup almond butter
1 Tbsp raw honey
1 cup chopped figs or dates
1 Tbsp vanilla extract
1/8 - 1/4 tsp ground allspice
1/8 - 1/4 tsp ground ginger
1/8 - 1/4 tsp ground cloves
¼ tsp salt
Directions:
Blend or stir the pumpkin, milk, chia seeds, figs, almond butter, vanilla, honey, allspice, ginger, cloves, and salt in a blender or mixing bowl until thoroughly combined.
To set, chill for 20 min.
Optional: garnish with pumpkin seeds
Serve and enjoy!
Note: play with the amount of spices to cater to your preference and constitution. For someone with a more vata and pitta constitution, these spices may be too strong in larger amounts.
Serves 4
Comments