In Brazil, food waste is one of the main challenges faced, resulting in large volumes of waste ending up in landfills and dumps. However, a simple and effective solution to combat this problem is to use parts of food that are often discarded, such as peels and stems. These parts, often ignored, have high nutritional value and can be transformed into delicious and nutritious dishes. In this post, we will explore how you can prepare a delicious sweet bread using pumpkin peel, making the most of food and contributing to a more sustainable world.
Why Use Pumpkin Peel in Cooking?
Pumpkin peel, which is often discarded, has a high nutritional value. Rich in fiber, vitamins and minerals, the peel can be an excellent addition to many recipes, making them healthier and tastier. In addition to reducing food waste, using pumpkin peel in cooking also helps save money, as it allows the food to be used in its entirety.
Another benefit of using pumpkin peels is their contribution to sustainability. By reusing parts of the food that would normally be thrown away, you help reduce the amount of waste generated and, consequently, the environmental impact. This practice, known as making full use of food, is an excellent way to incorporate more conscious and healthy habits into your daily life.
Pumpkin Peel Sweet Bread Recipe
Making sweet bread with pumpkin peel is simpler than it seems, and the result is a soft, aromatic dough full of flavor. Check out the ingredients and how to prepare it:
Ingredients
- 1 cup (tea) of cooked pumpkin peel
- 3 tablets of bread yeast (organic)
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- ½ cup (tea) of warm milk
- 7 cups (tea) of wheat flour
- 3 eggs
- 3 tablespoons of margarine
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 can of condensed milk
Preparation Method
Cook the pumpkin skin until soft. Wash the pumpkin well under running water and carefully remove the skin. Then cook the skin until soft. This process makes it easier to mash and incorporate into the bread dough.
In a bowl, dissolve the yeast tablets in the sugar and warm milk. Add a cup of wheat flour and mix well. Cover the bowl with a cloth and let the mixture rest until it doubles in volume.
After the yeast has risen, add the cooked and sifted pumpkin peel, eggs, margarine, ground cinnamon, salt and condensed milk to the mixture. Gradually add the remaining wheat flour until the dough reaches a soft point, but firm enough to be kneaded.
On a smooth, floured surface, knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic. This process is important for developing the gluten, which will result in a lighter bread with a good texture.
Shape the dough into small loaves or a single large loaf, depending on your preference. Place them on a baking sheet and cover with a cloth, letting the dough rise again until it doubles in size.
Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake the breads for approximately 30 to 40 minutes, or until golden brown on top. The aroma of cinnamon and sweet pumpkin peel will spread throughout the house, making everyone's mouth water.
Nutritional Benefits of Pumpkin Peel
Pumpkin peel isn’t just tasty; it’s also a rich source of essential nutrients. In addition to fiber, which helps regulate intestinal transit and maintain satiety, pumpkin peel contains vitamins A and C, which are important for eye health and the immune system. Regular consumption of pumpkin peel can contribute to a more balanced and healthy diet, especially when incorporated into recipes like this sweet bread.
Another important aspect is the high antioxidant content present in pumpkin peel, which helps fight free radicals and prevent premature aging of cells. Therefore, in addition to being delicious, sweet bread with pumpkin peel is an excellent choice for those who want to include more nutrients in their daily diet.
Other Recipes with Pumpkin Peel
In addition to sweet bread, pumpkin peel can be used in many other recipes, further expanding the possibilities of using this food. An interesting option is to prepare a refreshing and nutritious salad with pumpkin peel. See how to do it below:
Pumpkin Peel Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 cups (tea) of pumpkin peel
- 1 cup (tea) of chopped tomato
- ½ cup (tea) of chopped onion
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
Preparation method:
Wash the pumpkin under running water, peel and grate the skin. In a saucepan, bring water to a boil and cook the pumpkin skin until it is soft. Drain the water and let it cool.
In a bowl, mix the cooked pumpkin skin with the tomato, onion, salt and olive oil. Refrigerate and serve the salad cold. This is an excellent side dish for lunch or dinner, rich in fiber and flavor.
Tips for Making Full Use of Food
Incorporating the concept of using food in its entirety into your routine is easier than it seems. Start by observing which parts of the food you usually throw away and research ways to use them in new recipes. In addition to peels, stalks and leaves can also be used, such as in the preparation of broths, soups and stews.
Another important tip is to plan your shopping and meals in advance to avoid waste. Storing food correctly and preparing the right amounts for each meal are simple steps that can make all the difference in reducing food waste.
Sustainability and Flavor in Every Bite
Sweet bread with pumpkin peel is a clear example of how it is possible to combine flavor and sustainability in the kitchen. By using parts of food that would normally be thrown away, you not only save money, but you also contribute to a healthier environment. In addition, this practice promotes a richer and more nutritious diet, benefiting the whole family.
So next time you’re cooking, think about how you can make the most of your food and create delicious, sustainable dishes. The planet and your taste buds will thank you!
Check out other interesting facts about recycling clicking here.
Learn how to make art by recycling, Click here.
