In challenging times, we frequently seek solace in the things that provide us comfort and tranquility. This might include enjoying music, taking a stroll on the beach during sunset, engaging in reading, meditating, or praying. Personally, I find cooking to be a refuge; it allows me to be imaginative, caring, and productive all at once. Across the globe, individuals are enduring various hardships—be it due to health issues, loneliness, exhaustion, anxiety, financial struggles, or the loss of the normalcy we once knew. Prior to the pandemic, self-isolation, and the concept of ‘social distancing’; lockdowns, and the shortage of money, food, or medical services for those in need.
I find myself somewhat shielded from the gravest difficulties others are encountering. Despite needing to work remotely, not seeing my friends and family, missing celebrations, my husband having to remove his scrubs at the entrance after his shifts, and the sporadic toilet paper shortages, my daily life continues on quite normally. Nonetheless, living in this period of uncertainty is profoundly troubling and exhausting – with the unpredictability of what lies ahead, whether more individuals will become ill or lose their lives, and when this unusual time will come to an end.
I sincerely wish that you manage to discover something that brings you comfort and serenity, and if you enjoy cooking like I do, this recipe could be a simple and delightful option for you to prepare for yourself and those you care about.
Ingredients:
- 1 3/4 cups self-raising flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 2/3 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup pepitas
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 cup cooked, mashed pumpkin
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 2 eggs
Begin by preheating the oven to 180 C. Prepare a 12-hole muffin tin by lining it with paper cases. To prepare the mashed pumpkin, roast approximately 500 g of Kent pumpkin (skin on) at 180 C, lightly drizzled with canola oil for about 30 minutes or until tender. Once cool enough to handle, scoop the flesh out and mash it with a fork. For the muffins, sift the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and sugar into a medium mixing bowl. Incorporate the pecans and mix thoroughly. In a separate bowl, whisk the vegetable oil, milk, mashed pumpkin, maple syrup, vanilla, and eggs together. Pour the dry ingredients into the wet ones and mix swiftly; avoid over-beating as it may toughen the muffins. Spoon the mixture evenly into the muffin tin and sprinkle pepitas atop. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the muffins bounce back lightly when pressed. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature, on their own, or with a spread of butter and a drizzle of honey.
# Pumpkin, Pecan, and Pepita Muffins: A Nutritious Comfort Recipe for Difficult Times
During times of uncertainty and pressure, many find solace in food. Yet, comfort food doesn’t need to be unhealthy or overly indulgent. It can indeed be nourishing, wholesome, and provide the warmth and satisfaction we seek. Introducing the **Pumpkin, Pecan, and Pepita Muffins**—a delectable, nutrient-rich recipe that blends the earthy essence of pumpkin, the crunch of pecans, and the mild nuttiness of pepitas (pumpkin seeds). These muffins deliver both comfort and health benefits, making them a perfect treat for tough times.
## Why Choose Pumpkin, Pecan, and Pepita?
Each primary ingredient in this recipe offers distinct nutritional benefits, transforming these muffins into more than just a delightful snack. Let’s delve into the key ingredients:
### 1. **Pumpkin: A Nutritional Marvel**
Pumpkin serves as a versatile component overflowing with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It stands out for its high level of **vitamin A**, supporting eye health and bolstering the immune system. Additionally, the fiber content in pumpkin aids digestion and promotes satiety. Its natural sweetness and moisture make it an outstanding foundation for baked goods, minimizing the necessity for excess sugar and fat.
**Key Nutrients in Pumpkin:**
– Vitamin A (in the form of beta-carotene)
– Vitamin C
– Potassium
– Fiber
– Antioxidants
### 2. **Pecans: Beneficial Fats and Protein**
Pecans are a significant source of **healthy fats**, notably monounsaturated fats, known for improving heart health by lowering bad cholesterol levels. They also deliver a solid amount of **protein** and **fiber**, contributing to a filling and wholesome addition to any recipe. Furthermore, pecans are rich in **antioxidants**, aiding in inflammation reduction and cellular protection.
**Key Nutrients in Pecans:**
– Healthy fats (monounsaturated and polyunsaturated)
– Protein
– Fiber
– Magnesium
– Vitamin E
### 3. **Pepitas: Small Seeds with Big Nutrition**
Pepitas, or pumpkin seeds, may be small, but they are nutritionally robust. They’re an excellent source of **magnesium**, essential for muscle function, bone health, and energy production. They are also rich in **zinc**, a necessary mineral for immune support and healing. Plus, they contain **healthy fats** and **protein**, enhancing baked goods with extra nutritional value.
**Key Nutrients in Pepitas:**
– Magnesium
– Zinc
– Healthy fats
– Protein
– Iron
## The Comforting Nature of Muffins
Muffins epitomize classic comfort food, and rightly so. They are portable, easy to prepare, and suitable for any time of the day. Whether paired with morning coffee, enjoyed as an afternoon treat, or even savored for dessert, muffins provide a sense of nostalgia and warmth. The combination of pumpkin, pecans, and pepitas in these muffins offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures—soft and moist inside, contrasted with a satisfying crunch outside.
## A Recipe for Difficult Times
During challenging times, nourishing both body and spirit is essential. These Pumpkin, Pecan, and Pepita Muffins accomplish this beautifully. They are simple to make, utilize straightforward ingredients, and can be tailored to your liking. Additionally, they are brimming with nutrients that foster general health and well-being, making them an ideal choice for when you seek a bit of extra comfort.
### Recipe: Pumpkin, Pecan, and Pepita Muffins
#### Ingredients:
– 1 ¾ cups whole wheat flour (or all-purpose flour)
– 1 tsp baking soda
– ½ tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– ½ tsp ground nutmeg
– ¼ tsp ground ginger
– ¼ tsp ground cloves
– ¼ tsp salt
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
– ½ cup maple syrup or honey
– 2 large eggs
– ¼ cup melted coconut oil or olive oil
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– ½ cup chopped pecans
– ¼ cup pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
– Optional: ¼ cup raisins or dried cranberries for added sweetness
#### Instructions:
1. **Begin by preheating the oven** to 350°F (175°C) and lining a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly greasing the tin.
2. **In a large bowl**, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon,